Patients who have taken Zelnorm and experienced a severe adverse effect such as heart attack or stroke are urged to file a report with the FDA.

Despite safety concerns, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Zelnorm in July 2002 for use in women with irritable bowel syndrome. A little more than two years later, Zelnorm’s indications were expanded to include the treatment of constipation in women under the age of 65. These approvals, however, continued to raise concerns in the medical community, and in March 2007, Zelnorm was permanently pulled from the U.S. market. According to a report cited by the FDA, Zelnorm increased the risk of severe cardiovascular problems—including heart attack and stroke.

Individuals who have taken Zelnorm and experienced a serious adverse health effect may be entitled to hold Novartis Pharmaceuticals—the drug’s makers—responsible for financial and emotional damages suffered as a result. To find out if you are eligible to file a legal claim to recover your losses, please contact us today.

Dangerous Zelnorm Side Effects

Zelnorm was recalled after a data analysis of the medical records of more than 18,000 patients who had used the drug revealed an increased risk of:

~ Angina
~ Heart attack
~ Stroke
~ Severe diarrhea and related complications such as decreased blood pressure, low blood  plasma, and/or temporary loss of consciousness
~ Ischemic colitis (inflammation of the large intestine)

The analysis specifically revealed that .11 percent of patients who had taken Zelnorm suffered heart complications compared with only .01 percent of patients who were given a placebo. One of the Zelnorm patients who experienced cardiovascular complications died.

Patients who have taken Zelnorm and experienced a severe adverse effect such as heart attack or stroke are urged to file a report with the FDA.

Are You Eligible for Compensation?

If you suffered a heart attack, stroke or other serious complication as a result of taking Zelnorm, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your losses including medical bills, mental anguish, and pain and suffering, among other things. Contact us today for a FREE case evaluation with one of our experienced defective drug attorneys who can answer your questions and help you understand your legal options.