Tekturna (generic: aliskiren) is a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of hypertension, in order to lower dangerously high blood pressure. In doing so, Tekturna reduces the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions. However, the introduction of Tekturna for a prolonged period of time may result in catastrophic and even life-threatening side effects. Certain populations who receive Tekturna treatment may significantly increase their risk of developing strokes, kidney injuries, high potassium levels, and dangerously low blood pressure.
If you or a loved one has been injured by Tekturna, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Tekturna Lawsuit Overview
Tekturna was developed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals on March 5, 2007. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) simultaneously approved of the use of Tekturna to reduce high blood pressure by treating hypertension that causes blood vessels to restrict. Tekturna’s unique mechanism of action acts on substances in the body the narrow blood vessels.
Aliskiren, the active ingredient found in Tekturna, belongs to a group of drugs known as direct renin inhibitors. As a direct renin inhibitor, aliskiren has the inherent ability to decrease certain natural chemicals that tighten the blood vessels. Accordingly, blood vessels relax in the presence of aliskiren and blood pressure is lowered, therefore allowing the heart to pump blood more efficiently. By targeting the specific process that narrows blood vessels, Tekturna may indirectly reduce cardiovascular risks such as strokes and myocardial infarctions.
Unfortunately, the introduction of Tekturna to certain populations may result in severe complications. Patients who receive Tekturna treatment, particularly those diagnosed with diabetes and using angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, may significantly increase their risk of developing a stroke, kidney injury, high potassium levels, and dangerously low blood pressure. Due to the severity of these complications, patients may contact a lawyer at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP for a free case evaluation regarding their potential Tekturna lawsuit.
Tekturna Side Effects
The following is a comprehensive list of the serious side effects that have been associated with Tekturna use:
- Kidney problems
- Strokes
- Non-fatal strokes
- Hyperkalemia (high potassium)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Renal complications
- Myocardial infractions
Tekturna Stroke Risk
According to scientific literature, a stroke occurs when the brain is unable to obtain the appropriate amount of blood and nutrients. Subsequently, if the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted or severely reduced, brain tissue is deprived of oxygen. In an adverse event such as this, brain cells are unable to thrive and begin to die at a rapid pace.
An inadequate oxygen supply to the brain may result in one of two kinds of strokes. The first of which is known as an ischemic stroke. Ischemic strokes occur when a blood vessels that supply blood to the brain are blocked by a clot. Ischemic strokes may also be caused by clogged arteries. Fat, cholesterol, and other substances collect on the artery walls, forming a sticky substance called plaque. If enough plaque builds up, blood flow may be significantly impeded.
A hemorrhagic stroke, otherwise synonymous with a brain aneurysm, occurs when a blood vessel in part of the brain becomes weak and bursts open, causing blood to leak into the brain. The obstacle provided by the burst vessel proves insufficient in facilitating the entire brain with oxygenated blood.
Strokes may result in both temporary and permanent disabilities, depending on how long the brain was without oxygen and how many subsequent brain cells were lost. Complications of a Tekturna stroke may include:
- Paralysis
- Loss of muscle movement
- Difficulty talking
- Memory loss
- Severe pain
- Changes in behavior
- Death
Tekturna Kidney Injury Risk
February 21, 2012 witnessed the European Medicines Agency (EMA) request the addition of severe kidney damage warnings to drugs that contain aliskiren, like Tekturna. The EMA recommended that combinations of Tekturna with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) be contraindicated in individuals with diabetes or renal (kidney) impairment. Such a combination has suggested a possible increase in the risk of suffering from severe kidney injuries. According to regulatory agencies, the risk of kidney injuries may outweigh any possible reward received from Tekturna treatment.
Tekturna Hyperkalemia Risk
When used in combination with an ACE inhibitor in a diabetic population, Tekturna may increase the rate in which serum potassium levels rise by as much as 5.5%. Concomitant use of Tekturna with potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium, or other drugs that increase potassium levels may lead to increases in serum potassium. If potassium levels remain high, patients may be at an increased risk of developing hyperkalemia. In severe circumstances, hyperkalemia can lead to cardiac arrest and even death.
Other Aliskiren-Based Medications
The following medications all contain aliskiren, the active ingredient associated with these life-threatening complications:
- Valturna
- Tekamlo
- Amturnide
Do I Have a Tekturna Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Tekturna lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Tekturna, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.