Archive for the ‘Tysabri’ Category

Tysabri, a drug made by Biogen Idec Inc., to treat multiple sclerosis, has been linked to progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare and often lethal brain infection.  The new case of PML linked to Tysabri was reported on June 23rd, and is the ninth such case reported since the drug was put back on the market in July 2006.  Biogen stated it will no longer report individual cases of Tysabri PML infections, but will keep a weekly update on its website.

Tysabri was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (”FDA”) in 2004 to treat multiple sclerosis. It was recalled in 2005 after three patients suffered PML infections; two of those infections were fatal.  The FDA reintroduced Tysabri in July 2006 with stronger warnings about side effects, and doctors were warned to use strict guidelines to limit the risk of infections.

PML is a brain infection that causes inflammation to the white matter of the brain.  Certain brain functions disintegrate, and the patient can die.  Even if the infection is discovered early, it could still lead to impaired speech, loss of vision, paralysis, and cognitive decline.

The psoriasis drug Raptiva was recalled in April due to PML infections, and the cancer drug Rituxan has been linked to 57 cases of the infection.

For more information on Raptiva lawsuits or a Tysabri lawyer, contact Bernstein Liebhard for a free and confidential consultation.