Accutane and Crohn’s Disease
Accutane, a medication prescribed to help with severe acne, has been linked to several serious side effects including Crohn’s disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease that comes with devastating and life altering consequences. Crohn’s disease can cause lesions and ulcers on the small intestine which can lead to problems with the entire digestion tract. Those problems include frequent bowel movements, abdominal pain and fever. The onset of Crohn’s disease can take months or years with varying degrees of severity and side effects.
If you have developed Crohn’s disease while taking Accutane, then you may be eligible for financial compensation for your pain, mental anguish and financial struggle. Contact our firm for a free consultation with an experienced attorney at1-800-774-0757.
Crohn’s Disease and Accutane Link
A 2006 study done by the American Journal of Gastroenterology discovered a link between the use of Accutane and the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) including Crohn’s disease. The study found that Accutane users are four times more likely to develop IBD when taking Accutane than those individuals whodo not take Accutane. It has been suggested that the La Roche Group, the makers of Accutane, knew about the health risks associated with Accutane but withheld this information. Ultiamtely, the FDA issued a black box warning to patients but it was several years too late.
Accutane Crohn’s Disease Symptoms
Crohn’s disease is incurable which means that, even if the lesions and ulcers disappear, there is a high chance that they will return later on in life. If you are taking or have taken Accutane and develop any of the following side effects, then consult your doctor immediately.
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Discomfort from abdominal bloating
- Diarrhea, which can be either watery or bloody
- Visible blood in bowel movements
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Extremely frequent bowel movements (as many as 20 per day)
- Anal or intestinal abscesses
Crohn’s disease associated with Accutane can negatively impact your quality of life. You may feel emotionally distraught and embarrassed about this condition. Serious cases of Crohn’s disease have also been linked to an increased risk of cancer, suicide, malnutrition, joint pain, growth retardation, anemia, fever and eye damage. Many sufferers of Crohn’s disease are unable to work and live a normal life.
Accutane and Warnings about Crohn’s Disease
Accutane users have the legal right to know that Accutane can increase your risk of Crohn’s disease. The makers of Accutane, the La Roche Group, failed to warn patients of this Accutane health risk. Because Crohn’s disease can come on gradually, many patients may have been negatively impacted by Accutane Crohn’s disease but are not aware of it yet. There have been over 5,000 lawsuits filed against the La Roche Group, many involving Accutane and Crohn’s disease.
Accutane Attorney
At Pearson, Randall, & Schumacher, P.A. we represent the interests of our clients who suffer from complications from Accutane. You should not have to pay for the neglect and abuse caused by the La Roche Group. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve for your physical, emotional and financial suffering. Please call 612-767-7500, or Toll Free at 1-800-774-0757, or e-mail attorneys@prslegal.com to consult with one of our attorneys about your Accutane Crohn’s disease case.