Accutane Lawsuit

Studies associate accutane with crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis

Accutane, manufactured by United States pharmaceutical manufacturer Hoffman La Roche, is a drug that was originally marketed to treat severe acne. In 1997, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began to receive numerous complaints of Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease, and inflammatory bowel disease associated with the use of Accutane. In nearly all of the 85 reports received over a five year span, the FDA determined that it was “probable” that the diseases had been caused by the individual’s prior use of Accutane.

Roche Pharmaceuticals had made close to $1.2 billion annually from the sale of Accutane by the time it pulled the drug from the market in June 29, 2009 due to the large number of adverse side effects, including Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease.

If you or a loved one were prescribed Accutane and are suffering from Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you may have a claim against the manufacturer, Hoffman La Roche for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

To learn more about your rights and options, contact the experienced Accutane Lawyers at Zehl & Associates PC, today for a free, no-obligation consultation. With decades of combined experience handling defective pharmaceutical claims, the trial lawyers at Zehl & Associates PC have the knowledge and skill to ensure that you receive the maximum recovery available.

Severe Side Effects of Accutane

Accutane was designed to inhibit the growth, development and reproduction of oil glands and cells in order to eliminate severe acne. In addition, it removes important molecules from the body which are intended to keep the eyes, skin and even joints lubricated. As a result, patients have suffered serious side effects including:

• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Crohn’s Disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Stomach cramps
• Abdominal pain
• Dryness of the eye
• Vision problems
• Birth Defects
• Joint Pain
• Back Pain
• Seizures
• Suicidal thoughts or tendencies

Accutane: Was it Necessary?

This medication, although linked to serious side effects, was considered to be an effective option that could successfully alleviate symptoms in patients suffering from severe acne when used properly. Unfortunately, according to a U.S. Congressional investigation, an alarming number of dermatologists prescribed the drug to patients that did not need it. This has resulted in thousands of patients with mild to moderate acne symptoms unknowingly taking great risks for very little benefit.

Accutane is also marketed under the following names:

• Amnesteem
• Claravis
• Clarus
• Decutan
• Isotane
• Isotret
• Isotrex
• Izotek
• Oratane
• Sotret
• Roaccutane
• Isotretinoin (generic)