Prevacid, Nexium, and Prilosec are part of a class of drugs known as “proton pump inhibitors” or PPIs. PPIs reduce the amount of acid in the stomach. They do this by chemically blocking proton pumps—structures in certain cells that secrete hydrogen to create stomach acid.
Gastric cancer develops anywhere in the stomach from the entrance lining, to the bottom lining of the stomach. When diagnosed early, and if limited to the inner linings of the stomach, typically, treatments include endoscopic mucosal resection, or by gastrectomy and lymphadenectomy, without the need for chemotherapy or radiation. However, as the cancer develops, it becomes more difficult to manage the symptoms.
The drug makers knew or should have known about the potential stomach cancer side effects, yet continued to market the drugs without appropriate warnings, encouraging consumers to continue the use of the medications for long periods of time.
After failing to warn users about the potential risks, companies encouraged individuals stay on Nexium or other PPIs for many years, with little attempt to reduce the need for the medication.
Millions of people have used these OTC and prescription heartburn medicines under the presumption of safety. However, many studies indicate that the side effects of proton pump inhibitors (PPI), including Nexium and Prevacid, could seriously increase the risk of kidney problems; not adequately disclosed by the drug manufacturer.
The possible side effects include:
- Acute kidney injury
- Acute interstitial nephritis
- Chronic kidney disease
- Kidney failure
- Dialysis treatment
- Kidney transplant surgery
- Various cancers; including stomach.
If the drug manufacturers had properly provided correct information to consumers and the medical community about the possible link between the heartburn medication, Nexium and kidney injury, many people may have avoided serious and life-threatening complications by limiting their use of this drug or choosing a different treatment alternative. So, for more information, please see our dangerous products page here.
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Contact our Prevacid or Nexium injury lawyers to review whether you or a loved one may deserve financial compensation. Call us for a free consultation at 844-977-1900 any time of the day or night. You can also get in touch with us via our online form or by using our LiveChat feature.
The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.