Pradaxa stormed the market in 2010 and was widely prescribed as an anticoagulant drug used to prevent or treat blood clots. Initially, it seemed effective at reducing the risk of stroke, particularly in patients with atrial fibrillation. The manufacturer, German-based Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., has realized more than $ 1 billion in sales from the drug, as reported by The New York Times.
Despite its initial surge in popularity, time has shown the drug can have devastating effects, some of which result in fatal consequences. The New York Times has reported more than 500 deaths have been linked to Pradaxa in the United States alone. Meanwhile, the FDA reports that some 725,000 individuals have used or continue to use the drug. This popularity is thought, by some, to be due to an aggressive and effective ad campaign aimed at primary and specialty physicians.
The devastating consequences of Pradaxa use will likely continue. If you or a loved one has experienced serious side effects after taking Pradaxa, you can contact Stark & Stark and speak to one of the Mass Tort attorneys, free of charge, who can help assess any claims that you might have against Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.