What is the Viberzi Lawsuit About?
The Viberzi lawsuit primarily concerns allegations of liver damage, including acute liver failure, associated with the use of the prescription medication Viberzi (eluxadoline) [1][2]. Patients and their families have filed lawsuits claiming that the drug's manufacturer, Allergan, failed to adequately warn about these serious risks [1][2][3].
What Are the Alleged Dangers of Viberzi?
Viberzi is prescribed to treat irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) [1]. The lawsuits claim that the drug can cause pancreatitis and liver injury, particularly in patients who have had their gallbladder removed [3]. Symptoms of liver damage can include jaundice, abdominal pain, and elevated liver enzymes [1]. In some cases, these injuries have reportedly led to hospitalization and death [2][3].
When Did These Issues Surface?
Concerns regarding Viberzi's safety profile, particularly liver-related adverse events, have been raised in scientific literature and by regulatory bodies. Reports and warnings regarding these risks have been issued, prompting further investigation and legal action [1][2].
Who is Being Sued in the Viberzi Lawsuit?
The primary defendant in these lawsuits is Allergan, the manufacturer of Viberzi [1][2][3]. The legal actions allege that Allergan was aware of or should have been aware of the potential for severe liver damage and failed to provide sufficient warnings on the product's labeling [1][2].
What Kinds of Legal Actions Are Involved?
The Viberzi lawsuits are typically filed as personal injury or product liability claims [1][3]. These cases often seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages incurred by patients who allegedly suffered harm from the medication [2]. Many of these cases have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) to streamline pre-trial proceedings [3].
How Does Viberzi Work, and Why Might it Cause Liver Damage?
Viberzi is a mixed mu- and kappa-opioid receptor agonist and a delta-opioid receptor antagonist [1]. Its mechanism of action is intended to reduce bowel contractions and slow down the transit of stool through the intestines, thereby alleviating diarrhea. The exact mechanism by which Viberzi may cause liver injury is still under investigation, but it is believed to involve effects on the biliary system and potential direct hepatotoxicity [1][3].
What Are the Warnings Associated with Viberzi?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reviewed the safety of Viberzi, and the drug's labeling includes warnings regarding the risk of pancreatitis and sphincter of Oddi dysfunction, particularly in patients without a gallbladder [1][3]. These warnings are central to the ongoing lawsuits, as plaintiffs argue they were insufficient or not clearly communicated to healthcare providers and patients [2][3].
Have There Been Any Settlements or Verdicts?
As of recent information, some cases within the Viberzi MDL have progressed, and there have been ongoing legal proceedings. Specific details regarding settlements or trial verdicts are subject to ongoing litigation and public court records [3].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/blog/viberzi-lawsuit
[2] https://drugpatentwatch.com/blog/viberzi-lawsuit-updates
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/blog/viberzi-eluxadoline-lawsuits