What You Need to Know About Valsartan and Its Health Hazards

Valsartan is commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, helping patients reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. However, the discovery of certain carcinogenic substances in some valsartan batches has raised alarms across the medical community and prompted legal action against manufacturers.

The health hazards linked to valsartan stem from the presence of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) in the drug. These are classified as probable human carcinogens by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other regulatory bodies. Patients who have taken contaminated valsartan and later developed cancer may be entitled to compensation. If you or a loved one has been affected, you may want to get help to file a Valsartan cancer lawsuit and pursue justice.

Understanding the risks and how they came to light is essential for those impacted. Below, we break down what you need to know about valsartan, its contamination, and what legal and medical steps you can take.

What Is Valsartan, and Why Is It Prescribed?

Valsartan belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). These medications work by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more freely and reducing blood pressure. For decades, valsartan has been a staple treatment for individuals with hypertension and heart failure.

While generally considered effective, the safety of valsartan came under scrutiny in 2018 when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a recall of several valsartan-containing products. The recall followed the discovery of NDMA and NDEA impurities in medications sourced from certain overseas manufacturing facilities.

How Did the Contamination Happen?

The contamination occurred during the production process at specific manufacturing sites, where changes in drug formulation and synthesis introduced harmful impurities. NDMA and NDEA are byproducts of chemical reactions that can form under certain conditions during drug manufacturing.

Several manufacturers sourced ingredients from these facilities, resulting in widespread distribution of contaminated medications. This led to global recalls and heightened regulatory oversight.

The FDA and other regulatory agencies have since implemented stricter guidelines to prevent future contamination. Nevertheless, the damage caused by these impurities is far-reaching, with many patients facing life-altering diagnoses.

Health Risks Associated with Valsartan

The primary health concern linked to contaminated valsartan is an increased risk of cancer. NDMA and NDEA have been shown to damage DNA, leading to the development of various cancers, including:

• Liver Cancer: NDMA has a strong association with liver toxicity and cancer in animal studies.
• Stomach Cancer: Patients exposed to contaminated valsartan may face an elevated risk of stomach or gastric cancer.
• Colorectal Cancer: Studies suggest a possible link between long-term exposure to NDMA and colorectal cancer.

Beyond cancer risks, NDMA is also known to cause liver damage, which can lead to other health complications. Patients who unknowingly ingested contaminated valsartan for extended periods may have been at greater risk.

What Should You Do if You’ve Been Affected?

If you have taken valsartan and developed cancer or other serious health issues, it’s crucial to take action promptly. Start by consulting with a healthcare professional to discuss your medical history and determine whether your condition may be linked to contaminated valsartan.

Additionally, gather any relevant documentation, including:

• Prescription records showing your use of valsartan.
• Medical records diagnosing cancer or other related conditions.
• Receipts or invoices from pharmacies where valsartan was purchased.

These documents will be vital if you decide to pursue legal action against valsartan manufacturers.

Pursuing Legal Action

Filing a lawsuit can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by contaminated valsartan. A growing number of patients have already joined mass tort or class-action lawsuits to hold pharmaceutical companies accountable.

When seeking legal representation, look for attorneys experienced in pharmaceutical litigation. They can guide you through the process and increase your chances of securing a favorable outcome. Most importantly, don’t delay—statutes of limitations could impact your ability to file a claim.

Final Thoughts

The valsartan contamination scandal underscores the importance of rigorous safety standards in pharmaceutical manufacturing. For patients and families affected by this issue, it’s essential to stay informed and take action. Seek medical advice, document your case, and consider pursuing legal remedies to protect your rights.

If you believe you may have a case, don’t hesitate to get help to file a Valsartan cancer lawsuit and fight for the compensation you deserve.