What You Need To Know Now That Digitek Has Been Recalled
Digitek is a trade name of the drug digoxin, which is a cardiac glycoside that can help a weakened heart function properly. Digoxin is prescribed to relieve symptoms of congestive heart failure, a condition that reduces the ability of the heart to pump enough blood through the body. It is also used to regulate heart rhythm problems such as atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter.
The drug was recently recalled because of a potentially fatal manufacturing defect. If you have suffered serious side effects after taking the drug Digitek, it’s important that you learn about your legal rights. Contact the prescription drug lawyers at The Abelson Law Firm today. You can reach us toll free at 1-888-797-4242 or by email at consult@pillsthatkill.com.
The active ingredient in digoxin is digitalis, which is derived from the poisonous foxglove plant. Too much digitalis can result in a serious condition known as “digitalis toxicity.” Digitalis toxicity can occur from a single exposure or chronic overmedication. Symptoms of digitalis toxicity include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Loss of appetite
- Low blood pressure
- Cardiac instability and irregular pulse
- Heart palpitations
- Bradycardia (lowered heart rate)
- Seeing halos around objects
- Experiencing changes in color perception
- Blurred vision
- Decreased urine output
- Excessive nighttime urination
- Overall swelling
- Decreased consciousness
- Difficulty breathing when lying down
- Death
In severe cases, patients who suffer an overdose of digoxin are hospitalized. The condition is potentially fatal.
Thus, the main concern with the recently recalled Digitek pills is that they were manufactured at double the appropriate thickness, meaning they may contain as much as twice the approved dose of digitalis! This excess could cause digitalis toxicity. Furthermore, the excess significantly increases the likelihood that those taking Digitek will experience the known side effects and reactions that can result from the approved dosages. The patients most at risk of being harmed by the double-dose Digitek pills are those with renal failure because reduced kidney function causes digitalis to accumulate in the body rather than being excreted normally through urine. Stroke, heart attack and sudden death may result from digitalis toxicity.
The Food and Drug Administration warns that no patient should suddenly stop taking Digitek as their condition could worsen. The FDA urges those patients who used Digitek to contact their doctor if they have any concerns or questions about their medication. The manufacturer of Digitek has retained Stericycle customer service to act as the recall coordinator. Representatives at the service center are available to support consumer queries and to provide direction on how to return the product. They can be reached at 1-888-276-6166, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST. Additional information about the recall can also be found at www.actavis.us or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
If you suspect that you or a loved one are victims of Digitek toxicity , contact The Abelson Law Firm today at 1-888-797-4242 or by email at consult@pillsthatkill.com. Our team of dangerous medication lawyers can help you determine whether you have a legal claim.
