Understanding the Health Effects of Valsartan
Several drugs prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure contain the active ingredient Valsartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB).
First introduced for medical use in 1996, Valsartan works to help blood flow more easily through the body by relaxing blood vessels. Valsartan was marketed under the name brands Byvalson, Diovan, Entresto, or Exforge.
Why Was Valsartan Recalled?
On July 13, 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the voluntary recall of certain valsartan products contaminated with N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). NDMA is a probable carcinogen, and higher levels of the substance can lead to an increased risk of certain cancers, such as prostate, pancreatic, kidney, stomach, colon, and bladder. The original list of recalled valsartan varieties included:
- Major Pharmaceuticals Valsartan Tablets
- Prinston Pharmaceutical Inc. Valsartan Tablets and Valsartan-Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets
- Teva Pharmaceuticals USA Valsartan and Valsartan Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets
The FDA has since reported additional recalls by more pharmaceutical companies. There are now numerous valsartan lawsuits claiming a connection between the NDMA contamination and certain types of cancer. If you or a loved one took any valsartan product for one year or more after 2015 and developed cancer after 2017, you may qualify for compensation.
How Valsartan Has Impacted Veterans
While the valsartan recall has hurt many, the veteran community has been especially affected as many veterans take valsartan to treat their service-connected hypertension. Hypertension is the most common chronic condition among veterans, with more than 37 percent of the veteran population currently diagnosed.
Also known as high blood pressure, hypertension occurs when a person’s blood pressure rises to or above 130/80 mm Hg. This increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Medications with valsartan are intended to lower this risk as well as other complications caused by hypertension.
How CCK Can Help
If you or a family member took valsartan for 12 months or more after 2015 and were diagnosed with cancer after 2017, you may be eligible for compensation for your injuries. The team at Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick LTD is working with experts to ensure those harmed by the valsartan recall are compensated. Fill out the form above to see if you qualify.
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