Tequin
Tequin is the brand name for gatifloxacin, a type of antibiotic medication that is related to nalidixic acid (of the fluoroquinolone family). Originally manufactured by the Kyorin Pharmaceutical Company of Japan, gatifloxacin was introduced to the world as Tequin in 1999 by Bristol-Myers Squibb who purchased the rights to the drug. After the decision was made by Bristol-Myers Squibb to halt production of Tequin, the rights to the drug were restored to Kyorin.
Gatifloxacin was developed with the intention of serving as an oral or intravenous treatment for respiratory tract infections. As such, Tequin has been prescribed for the treatment of chronic bronchitis, sinusitis, pneumonia and urinary tract infections.
Tequin Side Effects Prompt Removal from Market
Tequin is a popular antibiotic drug, produced and distributed by Bristol-Myers Squibb. As a result of the serious nature of the Tequin side effects, Bristol-Myers Squibb has decided to halt production and relinquish its rights to the drug. Since its introduction into the world market in 1999, Tequin has been an immensely popular drug. Sales of Tequin for 2005 totaled more than $150 million worldwide, $100 million of which was attributed to use within the United States. It is because of its popularity that Tequin is seen as a danger; countless numbers of people were exposed and remain exposed to the serious side effects associated with the antibiotic drug.
Tequin Side Effects - Diabetes
In a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in March 2006, the life threatening and serious Tequin side effects were discussed in detail. The most notable of the Tequin side effects is the development of a serious case of diabetes. Tequin use has demonstrated an ability to cause either high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in certain patients.
Research conducted by public interest groups seeking a ban on Tequin has documented more than 388 Tequin patients who have developed some kind of blood-sugar irregularity. Of the 388 patients, approximately 20 have died as a result of the serious Tequin side effect; another 159 have been forced into hospitalization since January 1st, 2000.
Tequin FDA Warning
In February of 2006, specialists studying the various Tequin side effects began to call on the FDA to get involved by forcing Bristol-Myers Squibb to provide additional warning information to Tequin users. In essence, an FDA "black box" warning, the strictest drug warning available under FDA regulation, was sought.
As a result of the Tequin side effects and continued negative attention, Bristol-Myers Squibb opted to voluntarily halt production of the antibiotic; however, they are not willing to recall all remaining Tequin antibiotics that remain in circulation. It has been decided that sale of all remaining Tequin antibiotics will continue until the existing stockpile has been sold. Numerous public interest groups have been rallying in an attempt to get the FDA to place a ban on all remaining Tequin. As of yet, such a ban has not been issued.
Tequin Lawsuits
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of using Tequin, you may be eligible for compensation. The manufacturers of Tequin have a responsibility to protect users of their product from serious side effects. Failure to provide adequate warnings or to fully disclose a dangerous side effect is negligent and the company can be held liable for this negligent behavior. The law offices of Justice Lawyers are adept at handling a wide variety of personal injury drug claims, particularly those related to defective drugs like Tequin. Contact Justice Lawyers to get more information about your rights as a consumer or to learn more about the serious nature of the Tequin side effects.
The attorneys of the Law Office of Justice Lawyers are personal injury lawyers in Pensacola who protect victims of auto accidents, personal injury, wrongful death, defective drugs, consumer fraud, insurance fraud, product defects and defective medical devices, such as Guidant and Medtronic Pacemakers, and potentially harmful drugs, such as Ortho Evra. When you think of the top personal injury lawyers or car accident lawyers in Pensacola, think of Justice Lawyers.