September 22, 2014 — A class of anti-nausea drugs prescribed for cancer patients have been linked to serotonin syndrome, a life-threatening side effect that occurs when there is too much serotonin in the body.
Health authorities in Australia issued a Safety Warning for drugs that block the 5-HT3 receptor. These drugs work by preventing serotonin from reaching certain parts of the brain and nervous system, which inhibits nausea and vomiting in patients with cancer.
Drugs in this class include:
- Anzemet (dolasetron)
- Kytril (granisetron)
- Zofran (ondansetron)
- Aloxi (palonosetron)
Unfortunately, there have been at least two case reports in Canada from patients who developed serotonin syndrome after using these drugs. Although the patients were not seriously injured, serotonin syndrome can cause loss of consciousness, coma, and death.
According to Safety Warnings from Health Canada:
“It is very important to diagnose serotonin syndrome early as it can be fatal if not treated. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include agitation, confusion, fast heartbeat, muscle twitching or stiffness, fever, loss of consciousness or coma. As serotonin syndrome can be misdiagnosed, it is important that patients who experience any of these symptoms should talk to a healthcare practitioner immediately.”
Do I have a Serotonin Syndrome Injury Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting serotonin syndrome induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with serotonin syndrome, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Drug Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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