Lipitor

Cholesterol-Fighting Drug Tied to Liver, Kidney Injury

Silbowitz, Garafola, Silbowitz & Schatz is exploring possible legal actions against Pfizer Inc., the manufacturer of the cholesterol-lowering drug Lipitor (atorvastatin). In some cases patients may be able to recover for liver or kidney damage, muscle weakness or memory loss caused by the drug. Lipitor is a member of a class of drugs called statins. Studies have shown that Lipitor can cause elevated liver enzymes. Clinical trials have shown this to occur in 0.7 percent of patients; however, the rate was much higher for those taking higher doses.

Another serious side effect of Lipitor and other statins is a condition called rhabdomyolysis, which causes muscle cells to break down and release potentially toxic cell contents into the bloodstream. Symptoms of rhabdomyolysis include muscle pain, tenderness and weakness--most commonly in the calves and lower back. Malaise, fever, dark urine, vomiting and nausea can also be symptoms. The most dreaded consequence of rhabdomyolysis is acute kidney failure, occurring in 30-40% of the cases. Warning signs associated with liver failure are nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, dark urine, and generalized skin discoloration.

Lipitor has also been linked to memory loss, fatigue and balance problems.

If you or a loved one is in need of legal assistance, call Silbowitz, Garafola, Silbowitz, Schatz & Frederick, L.L.P. at (212)-354-6800 or toll free 1-888-LAW-1744, 347-577-9440 or submit an online questionnaire. Our firm offers a free case evaluation and our dedicated team can help you understand your legal rights and obtain the compensation you are entitled to.