Bayer Removes Baycol From Market
August 9, 2001
Baycol, a cholesterol-reducing drug manufactured by Bayer Pharmaceuticals, was voluntarily pulled from the market on Wednesday, August 8 after reports of dozens of deaths associated with the popular drug. Baycol, also known as cerivastatin, is currently prescribed to over 700,000 people in the U.S. alone.
Baycol is a member of the statin family of drugs that are used to lower cholesterol and reduce the chance of heart attack. However, all statins have been associated with dangerous side effects, particularly rhabdomyolysis, a potentially life-threatening condition. Rhabdomyolysis destroys muscle cells causing pain, particularly in the calves and lower back. The condition can become so severe that it leads to a kidney problem. Symptoms of rhabdomyolysis include, but may not be limited to, muscle pain, weakness, tenderness, fever, dark urine, nausea, and vomiting.
While other statins such as Zocor, Lescol, Lipitor, Pravachol, and Mevacor may cause rhabdomyolysis, Baycol has been linked to substantially more deaths than its competitors. Healthcare professionals recommend that patients taking Baycol or other statin drugs speak with their doctor regarding possible side effects, particularly muscle pain.
Baycol patients who also take gemfibrozil, another cholesterol lowering drug, may be at an even higher risk of developing rhabdomyolysis. Particularly vulnerable are the elderly and those prescribed high doses of Baycol.
InjuryBoard.com and its associated attorneys have closely followed the Baycol situation for the past several months. See your doctor if you have experienced serious health problems because of Baycol use. In addition, it may be important to contact an attorney who can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there may be time limits within which you must commence suit.
Attorneys associated with InjuryBoard.com will evaluate your case free of charge. In addition, you will not pay any fees or costs unless your attorney recovers money for you. Please click on the free Ask An Attorney button to take advantage of this valuable service.
-- Article Courtesy of InjuryBoard.com
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