Personal Injury Law

Serious Neurologic Disease Linked to Raptiva

By Jamie Sheller

In 2003, the FDA approved Raptiva as a treatment for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Raptiva (efalizumab) is manufactured by Genentech. Raptive works by suppressing the immune system, which leads to an increased risk of infections. Since the approval of Raptiva, the FDA has learned of three confirmed cases, and one possible case, of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in patients being treated with Raptiva for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. There is no known effective treatment for PML, which is a serious disease that affects the central nervous system. PML is caused by a virus, and it is progressive, often leading to death. Recently, the Raptiva label was changed to include a Boxed Warning, highlighting the risks of developing serious infections, such as PML, while using Raptiva. Patients being treated with Raptiva should be informed about the signs and symptoms of PML, and they should be closely monitored for possible development of the disease.

The lawyers at Sheller, P.C. represent plaintiffs in a variety of litigation. We have a team of lawyers who focus on pharmaceutical litigation, working to obtain compensation for people who have been injured by prescription drugs or medical devices. Sheller, P.C. has successfully represented injured parties in prescription drug litigation. We are currently investigating claims regarding Raptiva. If you, or someone you know, has developed a serious infection while being treated with Raptiva, contact Sheller, P.C.

Full post as published by Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyer on March 05, 2009 (boomark / email).