Tasinga

Tasigna (nilotinib) is a medication prescribed for the treatment of certain blood cell and bone marrow cancer called chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Clinical studies have linked Tasinga to an increased risk of atherosclerosis, a condition where plaques—a buildup of fats and cholesterol—form on the artery walls. Plaque buildup hardens the arterial walls and eventually narrows, or even blocks, the passageway through which blood can flow. The condition is very dangerous—atherosclerosis is a leading causes of heart attacks and strokes.

In 2013, drug manufacturer Novartis released a Canadian public safety alert warning that Tasigna had been linked to cases of atherosclerosis-related conditions during clinical trials and subsequently by patients and doctors after the drug was released on the market. However, Novartis never warned of the potential side effect in the United States.

The United State Food and Drug Administration sent a warning letter to manufacturer Novaris in 2010, indicating that the company’s advertising violated the agency’s marketing guidelines—the advertisements in question did not adequately inform readers of the risks of taking Tasigna, incorrectly implied that Tasigna was an appropriate treatment for all forms of CML, and improperly suggested that Tasigna was more effective than similar drugs.

In 2015, Novartis entered into a $390 million settlement with the Department of Justice over allegations the company had illegally marketed pharmaceutical drugs, including Tasigna. In August of 2018, Novartis agreed to settle a lawsuit against the company claiming that Tasigna treatment had caused a stroke. According to allegations raised in the lawsuit, Novartis failed to properly warn them and their doctor about the possible side effects of the chemotherapy drugs.

Tasinga litigation is ongoing and those who have suffered from atherosclerosis or other cardiovascular related illness after taking the drug may be entitled to compensation. If you or a loved one has suffered such an injury, contact the experienced dangerous drug attorneys at Neumann Law Group for a free consultation.