More Avelox side effects lawsuits have been filed recently against the drug’s manufacturer, Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals. These lawsuits allege that Avelox led to the development of a condition known as peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is a painful condition that involves damage to the nerves. These Avelox lawsuits generally allege that because these consumers used this medication, they developed this condition and now face long-term if not permanent harm. The lawsuits also claim that the makers of Avelox knew about the potential risks associated with the use of this drug but did not warn the public about them.
About Avelox
Avelox is a powerful antibiotic medication that is generally used to treat bacterial infections. Its active ingredient is known as moxifloxacin hydrochloride. Moxifloxacin hydrochloride is a type of medication known as a quinolone antibiotic. Avelox works by entering the bacteria cells and inhibiting a bacterial enzyme. This process prevents the ability of the bacteria to multiply and spread. Eventually, the bacteria cells die and the person recovers from the infection. Generally speaking, people are prescribed Avelox for a period of approximately 10 days.
Avelox is often prescribed to treat conditions that include:
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Sinusitis
- Some cases of pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID
Avelox was originally approved for use in the United States by the FDA in 1999. Since it was approved, the drug has generated an enormous amount of revenue for Bayer Healthcare. On average, it’s estimated that Avelox sales have averaged approximately $500 million per year.
Alleged Avelox Side Effects
Unfortunately, reports of alleged Avelox side effects eventually began to surface. The most commonly alleged side effect is a condition known as peripheral neuropathy. This condition develops as a result of damage to a person’s peripheral nervous system. The peripheral nervous system is the network of nerves that transmits information between the central nervous system and other parts of the human body. Peripheral neuropathy can involve several different symptoms depending on which nerves are affected. Examples of common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include:
- Numbness or tingling in the feet and/or hands
- Sensitivity to touch
- Jabbing pain
- Burning pain
- Muscle weakness
- Paralysis
- Loss of sense of balance and coordination
- Dizziness
There is no overriding cure for peripheral neuropathy. Some people recover from it over time and others suffer from it permanently.
About Avelox Side Effects Lawsuits
Many are wondering if more Avelox lawsuits are going to be filed as the number of current claims rises. People who have used this medication and who have been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy should learn more about what may have happened to them before deciding on the next step. That may involve a medical examination, but it should also involve an evaluation of a person’s legal rights and options. If you or someone you love has suffered in this manner, you need to contact the Avelox side effects lawyers at Parilman & Associates today to schedule a free initial consultation. You can either email the firm or call 800-800-DRUG.