Swiss drug manufacturer, Roche Holding AG, was recently ordered to pay damages in the amount of $2.5 million to 36-year old Andrew McCarrell, who was injured as a result of taking the drug Accutane. Accutane is used to treat acne, and was linked to McCarrell’s development of Inflammatory Bowel Disease or what is more commonly referred to as IBD. Roche Holding AG has United States based operations in New Jersey.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease is the name used to identify a chronic condition of the bowel including diarrhea, painful swelling, cramps of the abdomen, bowel blockage, bloody stool, weight loss, and other symptoms. These symptoms often surface without warning and those who suffer from IBD are at a greater risk of developing cancer of the colon or rectum.
Accutane is considered to be an extremely potent medication used to fight acne. McCarrell took the medication in 1995, and subsequently developed symptoms of IBD including incontinence and chronic diarrhea. The 36-year old endured several surgeries before ultimately having his colon removed. McCarrell was awarded $119,000 for medical expenses in addition to the $2.5 million judgment in his case. Accutane hit the market in 1982, and an estimated 400 lawsuits have been brought against the maker since that time.
Those who have developed complications as a result of taking Accutane or another dangerous medications may need to seek immediate medical attention as well as the services of a qualified personal injury attorney. Those with valid legal claims may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages incurred.