Losartan Cancer Concerns and Legal Action After Recalls

Losartan Recalls Spark Concerns Over Cancer Risk

A commonly prescribed blood pressure medication called losartan has recently been recalled by multiple pharmaceutical companies due to contamination that may lead to an increased risk of cancer. With numerous patients across the country having taken these contaminated batches of losartan over the last several years, many questions and worries have emerged over legal action and compensation for those who may develop cancer down the line.

Origins of the Losartan Recall

Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) which works by widening blood vessels to lower blood pressure. Tablets sold under the brand names Cozaar and Hyzaar contain losartan as the active ingredient.

In the summer of 2018, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) issued a recall for several batches of losartan made by Hetero Labs Limited in India found to be contaminated with N-Nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA). NDEA is a probable human carcinogen per the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

More Recalls Issued Since Initial Discovery

Additional recalls for both losartan and other ARB blood pressure medications have continued over the past few years. Rising Pharmaceuticals and Torrent Pharmaceuticals losartan products were also pulled from shelves. The same NDEA contamination has been detected in valsartan ARBs made by major manufacturers like Solco, Teva, and Sandoz.

The list of recalled contaminated losartan and valsartan products containing cancer-causing impurities continues to grow to this day. The unfolding situation has left many patients confused and concerned about their risk.

Risk of Cancer from Contaminated Medication

According to pharmaceutical experts, the amounts of NDEA found in recalled ARB batches could potentially lead to the development of cancer, especially when taken daily over several years as these medications are intended to be.

NDEA is metabolized by the body into chemicals that cause mutations in cell DNA which can spark tumor growth. Specifically, NDEA exposure raises risk of gastric, esophageal, liver, and other gastrointestinal cancers.

Actual Cancer Rate Still Unknown

Currently cancer rates among patients who took contaminated losartan or valsartan is unknown. Estimates suggest if 8,000 people took the highest detected NDEA dose daily for 4 years, there may be one additional case of cancer.

Looking back, officials admit it's likely some percentage of users of recalled ARBs over the past 4+ years have developed cancer due to their medication. Future cancer cases linked to the contamination are also expected to emerge down the road.

FDA Seeks Alternative Medications and Treatments

The FDA cautions those taking recalled ARBs should not immediately stop their medication without an alternative provided by their doctor, as the risks associated with sudden stopping likely outweigh potential cancer risk.

However, patients understandably want off contaminated pills. Doctors are working to prescribe alternate blood pressure medications or doses of losartan/valsartan confirmed safe through testing.

Legal Cases Over ARB Drug Cancer Risks

In light of the revelations about impurities increasing cancer risk, numerous losartan and valsartan users who later developed cancer have sought legal representation to pursue lawsuits. They allege the manufacturers and distributors acted negligently and failed to adequately quality test ARB batches.

Grounds for Future Cancer Cases

Cancer patients sickened by contaminated ARB medications they took daily for years argue the pharmaceutical companies prioritized profits over consumer safety. Compensation is sought for physical/emotional suffering and to cover medical bills.

There is also concern additional cancer cases will develop in coming years among those exposed to the impurities, even after stopping the pills. Grounds for legal action exist both now and in the future if cancer emerges.

Potential Settlement Actions

As of early 2023, few losartan or valsartan cancer cases have reached the stage of a monetary settlement or award. However, in similar past major drug safety scandals like that around Vioxx, manufacturers facing mounting lawsuits often offered blanket settlements to affected patients.

Given the scope of the ARB cancer risk situation, global settlements to potentially cover monitoring and compensation for all impacted patients remains a possibility industry experts analyze closely.

Tips for Concerned Losartan Patients

If you took losartan regularly over recent years, here are some tips in light of the contamination and uncertainty around legal outcomes:

Consult Your Doctor

Have an open conversation with your physician about your potential level of risk based on dose/duration taken. Explore alternate medication options to transition towards.

Be Aware of Cancer Signs

Learn stomach, liver and esophageal cancer symptoms to monitor for, as these are most associated with NDEA. Key signs include indigestion, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.

Keep Medication Packaging

Do not discard any pills or packaging so your specific manufacturer/lot numbers are documented should potential legal action later become necessary.

Speak to a Lawyer If Diagnosed

If you develop related cancers after taking recalled losartan or valsartan, consult a qualified lawyer regarding your legal options and building a case while evidence is fresh.

Stay up to date on new developments in the investigation into ARB impurities and any settlements or case outcomes as they emerge. Be proactive about your health and rights as more comes to light.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.