Crestor Lawsuits

Crestor Lawsuit

Crestor, a cholesterol reducing medication also known as a statin, was U.S. government approved in August of 2003. Crestor, like other approved statin medications, is used in combination with a low fat diet and an appropriate exercise program, which together lower blood cholesterol levels. The medication is available in variable strengths including 5, 10, 20 and 40 milligrams. However, the 40mg dose is limited to individuals with certain circumstances.

AstraZeneca, manufacturer of Crestor, states the medication is designed to lower the amount of total cholesterol in the blood, in addition to lowering triglycerides, while the medication increases HDL or “good cholesterol.” The company cautions against taking Crestor with certain other medications, as this can lead to serious side effects.

Crestor Side Effects

Noted adverse effects include abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, headache, indigestion, nausea and sore throat. However, persons experiencing dark urine, fever, muscle pain, muscle weakness, muscle tenderness, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, feel a generalized illness or fatigue while taking Crestor, should consult a physician.

Crestor should not be used in patients who are pregnant or have a history of liver or kidney disease. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients who have diabetes, thyroid disease or who consume more than 2 alcoholic beverages a day.

Serious Complication of Crestor

A public consumer group notified the FDA in 2004, requesting Crestor be removed from the market due to possible life-threatening adverse effects. The group complained that the company failed to mention the possibility of the dangerous side effects, kidney failure, muscle damage or rhabdomyolysis.

Within the first five months of being approved, three U.S. patients taking appropriate doses of Crestor suffered muscle or kidney damage. One 39-year-old woman died from a combination of both muscle damage and subsequent kidney failure. Combined statistics from Canada, the United Kingdom and the U.S. indicate seven cases of rhabdomyolysis (muscle damage) and nine cases of kidney damage or failure.

Consulting an Attorney

Astra Zeneca continues to praise the benefits of Crestor, also known as Rosuvastatin, as a cholesterol correction medication in spite of potentially life-threatening side effects. Any individual or loved one who has taken Crestor and experienced muscle damage, kidney disease or kidney failure should consult with an attorney. AstraZeneca may be held liable for the costs associated with these conditions. A qualified attorney with background in medication litigation will be able to provide proper legal advice.