Rezulin (troglitazone)

Rezulin (troglitazone) is in a class of anti-diabetic drugs called "thiazolidinediones" that are used in the treatment of type II diabetes. Patients with type II diabetes cannot make enough insulin, and the cells of their body do not respond normally to the reduced amounts of insulin that are present. Rezulin is often referred to as an "insulin sensitizer" because it attaches to the insulin receptors on cells throughout the body and causes the cells to become more sensitive (more responsive) to insulin. As a result, more glucose is removed from the blood.

Why Prescribed

Rezulin is prescribed to reduce the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. In addition, Rezulin may alter the blood concentrations of lipids (fats) in the blood by decreasing triglycerides and increasing the "good" (HDL) cholesterol.

FDA Approved Uses

Rezulin was approved by the FDA in 1999 for the treatment of type II diabetes.

Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with Rezulin are upper respiratory tract infection, headache, sinusitis, muscle aches, tooth disorders, hypoglycemia, and sore throat.

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Warnings and Alerts

Rezulin was recalled on March 21, 2000 after a controversial FDA approval and stay on the U.S. market. There have been an estimated 430 Rezulin patients that suffered liver failure, including 391 deaths. It was found that a Rezulin patient's risk of liver failure was increased 1,200 times by taking the drug.

Drug Contraindications

Rezulin is contraindicated in patients with renal failure and/or a history of liver problems.

FAQ's

What are symptoms of liver failure?

Symptoms of liver failure include jaundice, sever fatigue, abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea, loss of appetite, back pain, darkened urine, and vomiting.

What is a liver transplantation operation?

A liver transplant operation replaces a diseased or failed liver with a new one or a portion of one from a donor. Rezulin patients who have experienced liver failure have needed to have liver transplants.

When did Warner-Lambert first learn of the serious Rezulin side effects?

Rezulin manufacturer Warner-Lambert has been accused of knowing as early as 1993 of at least 12 people who had suffered potentially life-threatening liver damage during Rezulin's clinical trials. Further, in the first 18 months Rezulin was on the market, there were 56 reports from FDA records showing heart failure.

I understand why I need to see a doctor immediately, but why do I need a lawyer right away?

Your claim is subject to one of more state or federal statutes of limitations. These are laws limiting the time in which a lawsuit must be filed, and they vary from state to state and between state and federal law. If your claim is not already settled, or a lawsuit filed on your behalf within the time frame set by the statute, you will be barred from receiving any financial or other compensation, no matter how serious your injury or how strong your claim. For more information, contact an experienced defective drug litigation attorney today to discuss your legal options.

Can I bring a lawsuit if I have suffered injuries from taking Rezulin?

If you have suffered serious side effects from using Rezulin, particularly liver complications, or if you have lost a loved one due to wrongful death from taking Rezulin, you may be entitled to recover damages. Manufacturers of dangerous drugs can be held legally liable for their products and associated negligence. Contact a qualified defective drug litigation attorney today, who can evaluate your case and explain your legal options.