Apixaban has been approved for use as a treatment for AF in Europe by the European Commission. Apixaban is used as a stroke prevention tool for patients with atrial fibrillation. Strokes are common in AF patients, and doctors have been looking for drugs that prove safer and more effective than dangerous ones like Multaq.
Multaq has been linked to serious side effects. The drug, made by Sanofi-Aventis, has been widely criticized by the FDA as nearly too dangerous to for use after it was found to cause liver failure and a worsening of the heart condition. In fact, in September, the FDA issued a letter to Sanofi informing the company that Multaq should be discontinued after it was found to also be linked to lung disease and pulmonary toxicity. This could mean that while previous warnings and restrictions on Multaq use could be replaced by a complete recall of the drug. Now that the FDA has stated that Multaq use should be discontinued, some experts believe it is only a matter of time before the drug is completely removed from the shelves.
As for the Apixaban, there is a real need for new prescription drug treatments for AF. This newest approval could prove to be the best thing that ever happened to AF patients in terms of treatment.
“The approval of Eliquis represents an important new treatment option for health care professionals, who now have an oral anticoagulant with superior outcomes versus Warfarin in the reduction of stroke, major bleeding and death in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation,” Lars Wallentin, director and professor of cardiology at Uppsala Clinical Research Center and University Hospital, Sweden, stated.
If you or a loved one has suffered from liver failure, a worsening of the heart condition, lung disease or pulmonary toxicity after taking Multaq, contact attorney Greg Jones for a free consultation today. I am experienced at fighting Multaq lawsuits and may be able to help you recover money for your injuries.