Lipitor Maker Not Concerned With Baycol Recall
August 13, 2001
Pfizer, Inc., a leader in drug manufacturing, today dismissed any concerns raised by Bayer AG's voluntary recall of Baycol. Baycol, a cholesterol-lowering drug and part of a class of medications known as statins, was recalled after reports of over 50 deaths caused by the drug. Recently, Pfizer representatives brushed aside any concern about negative impacts on Pfizer's popular cholesterol-lowering drug, Lipitor. The company stands behind Lipitor and does not feel the Food and Drug Administration will institute any changes regarding its drug.
In fact, Pfizer may benefit greatly from Bayer's decision. Although Lipitor currently is the market leader, millions of patients will be searching for a new medicine in light of the Baycol recall. Lipitor accounts for nearly one-sixth of Pfizer's total revenue.
Some critics, such as the consumer watchdog group Public Citizen, question the safety of all statins, including Lipitor. In fact, a European drug advisory group has been formed in order to investigate claims that Lipitor, Zocor, and other cholesterol reducing drugs cause the same dangerous side effects as Baycol. All statins have been associated with rhabdomyolysis, a potentially fatal muscle and kidney condition.
-- Article Courtesy of InjuryBoard.com
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