Valsartan Cancer Lawsuits: 5 Things To Know

In recent years it came to light that there were certain impurities in the medication, Valsartan. In fact, Valsartan has been shown to be carcinogenic in animal studies[i]. Unfortunately this drug had already been FDA approved and was widely available on prescription from many doctors – all of whom were assured of its safety. Patients given cancer by this drug filed well deserved lawsuits… and here are some of the facts.

5 Things to know about the Valsartan Lawsuits

1 – The FDA Recalled the drug in 2018

The Valsartan lawsuit process was started after a worrying study prompted the FDA to recall Valsartan. This generic medication is thought to be responsible for several different types of cancer in humans. Since its initial recall many products have been withdrawn.

2 – It’s not just Valsartan

Other medicines which include Valsartan are involved in the lawsuit. In fact, the FDA actually warned against products containing the chemical compound NDMA. This substance is the precise ingredient that is said to increase the risk of cancer in animals.

3 – Studies Showed No increase in Cancer risk from Short Term Use

If you only used the drug for a short time then the chances are you do not need to file a Valsartan lawsuit. Research shows that the FDA recall of NDMA produced by a Chinese firm known as Zhejiang Huahai Pharmaceuticals did not increase the cancer risk in patients exposed for the short term.

This is a good indication of hope. Do not think you are doomed to cancer if you were on Valsartan medications for a short time. We do encourage you to get tested to be certain.

4 – Not All Valsartan Contains NDMA

Again – this point is designed to ease some of the panic. Before you jump on the Valsartan lawsuit bandwagon you should be aware that not all products were found to contain the carcinogenic by-product in question.

Medications such as Entresto are still considered viable and effective. Amlodipine is another medication often containing Valsartan that is considered safe. Novartis and Sandoz Valsartan products are also thought to be exempt. You can check the individual list be visiting the FDA website, here. If your medication is not one of the exemptions then you have a case and can join the Valsartan lawsuit motion.

5 – The Risk of Cancer is Unknown

Although studies have shown that there is a cancer risk – they have not told us how much, or what types. According to one CNN report the impurity has come from laboratory studies and is a toxin. This is a toxin they did not expect to find as a result of Valsartan. The toxin slowly killed rats in the studies, but human trials have yet to be conducted to determine more information.

CNN also report that high levels of NDMA can cause liver damage in humans. It is angiotensin receptor blockers which some scientists theorise are dangerous to humans on a broad level. NDMA is typically found in things like fabric softener and lubricant.

The Valsartan Lawsuit

If you think you have been harmed by consuming Valsartan medication then it is important to seek a doctor’s advice. Then – and only then – should you consider pursuing a lawsuit. Concern yourself with your own good health, first and foremost, and then reach to a reliable attorney in due course.

[i] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-updates-and-press-announcements-angiotensin-ii-receptor-blocker-arb-recalls-valsartan-losartan