Written by: Heather Helmendach, Legal Assistant
Law Offices of Thomas J. Lamb, P.A.
In 2017, the Mirena IUD and Ocaliva were both identified as having significant adverse side effects. Mirena IUD lawsuits have already been filed, and several people have lost their lives as a result of Ocaliva.
Looking forward into 2018, we will continue to monitor the medical and regulatory literature as well as conduct research concerning the harmful side effects of the Mirena IUD and Ocaliva, and report on any significant developments.
Mirena IUD
Mirena is an intrauterine device (IUD) that releases small amounts of a progestin hormone called levonorgestrel.
This hormone works to prevent pregnancy for up to five years through several processes that take place within the female reproductive system.
Potential Mirena IUD Side Effects
Apart from the more common Mirena IUD side effects such as migration of the device, perforation of the uterus, and embedment within the uterus, an additional harmful side effect was recently identified.
Pseudotumor cerebri (PTC), also referred to as idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), is a condition that is caused by an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the skull. This excess of fluid creates pressure on the brain, which can lead to swollen optic nerves.
Unfortunately, the failure to timely diagnose and treat PTC / IIH may lead to permanent vision loss and even blindness.
However, diagnosing this condition is not as straightforward as one would hope. Patients experiencing the symptoms of PTC / IIH often first undergo an MRI, CT scan, and/or other diagnostic radiology tests to rule out an actual tumor or blood clot in the brain. A lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, may then be performed in order to confirm the diagnosis of PTC / IIH.
The symptoms of PTC / IIH include:
- Severe migraines or migraine-like headaches with blurred vision
- Diplopia (double vision)
- Temporary blindness, blind spots, or other visual deficiencies
- Papilledema (optic disc swelling) due to increased intracranial pressure
- Tinnitus (a “whooshing” or ringing in the ear)
Free Mirena Case Evaluation
If you or some one you know used the Mirena IUD and received a diagnosis of PTC / IIH, or experienced the symptoms mentioned above, then we encourage you to submit a Drug Injury Law Case Review – it is free, confidential, and there is no obligation.
Resources:
Most Recent Article: Mirena IUD Associated with Harmful Neurological Side Effect
Information Page: Mirena IUD Side Effects
Ocaliva
Ocaliva (obeticholic acid) was approved by the FDA in May 2016 for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC).
It can be used in combination with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA.
Potential Ocaliva Side Effects
The FDA reported that many patients were receiving incorrect doses of Ocaliva, which was putting them at an increased risk of serious liver injury and even death.
More specifically, Ocaliva may lead to drug-induced liver injury / hepatitis, liver / hepatic failure, or hepatic necrosis.
The following symptoms may be signs of liver injury:
- New or worsening fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Decreased appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Change in behavior or confusion
- Vague symptoms such as anxiety or unease
- Abdominal swelling
- Yellow eyes or skin
- Bloody stools
Free Ocaliva Case Evaluation
If you or some one you know used Ocaliva and received a diagnosis of drug-induced liver injury, liver failure, or death, then we encourage you to submit a Drug Injury Law Case Review – it is free, confidential, and there is no obligation.
Resources:
Most Recent Article: Will Ocaliva Get Black-Box Warning For Liver Injury Side Effects After September 2017 FDA Report?
Information Page: Ocaliva Side Effects
DrugInjuryLaw.com: Medical & Legal Information About Drug Side Effects (All website content by attorney Tom Lamb)
Drug Injury Case Evaluation - Free. Confidential. No Obligation. (Case review done by attorney Tom Lamb)