Vimovo (naproxen and esomeprazole magnesium) is used in the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gastric ulcers. Unfortunately, many patients do not realize that Vimovo side effects may be more dangerous than the complications that the medication is intended to provide treatment for. People who use Vimovo for an extended period of time may increase their risk of suffering from severe bone fractures.
If you or a loved one has been injured by Vimovo, 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.
What’s the problem?
Vimovo, a product of AstraZeneca, was introduced to the U.S. market on April 30, 2010 as a treatment for arthritis patients who are at risk of developing NSAID-associated gastric ulcers. Vimovo is a treatment option for patients with osteoarthritis that combines naproxen, a prescription-strength NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug), with esomeprazole magnesium, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).
During the digestive process, countless pumps in the stomach produce acid in order to break down food. Gastric ulcers may occur as a result of excessive stomach acid produced from these pumps. As a PPI, Vimovo attempts to inhibit excessive acid production. As a result, Vimovo may effectively treat the symptoms of gastric ulcers or any other complication brought on by excess stomach acid reflux.
Unfortunately, the risks associated with Vimovo side effects may greatly outweigh the benefits. People who use Vimovo for an extended period of time may increase their risk of suffering from severe bone fractures in their wrist, hip and spine. Numerous Vimovo lawyers have been hired to pursue Vimovo lawsuits against AstraZeneca as a result of these potentially hazardous side effects.
Vimovo Side Effects
Vimovo side effects include the following:
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Abdominal pain
- Allergic reactions
- Chest Pain
- Dark urine
- Fast heartbeat
- Fever
- Increased rate of bone fracture
Vimovo Bone Fracture
The use of proton pump inhibitors like Vimovo may greatly increase the risk of a patient suffering from severe bone fractures in the wrist, hip and spine. Studies suggest that Vimovo may weaken the dexterity of bones and allow minimal pressure to cause a fracture.
FDA Bone Fracture Warning
The FDA issued a warning to consumers and health care professionals about a possible increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist, and spine with proton pump inhibitors like Vimovo. The product labeling will be changed to describe this possible increased risk.
“Epidemiology studies suggest a possible increased risk of bone fractures with the use of proton pump inhibitors for one year or longer, or at high doses,” said Joyce Korvick, M.D., deputy director for safety in FDA’s Division of Gastroenterology Products.
FDA’s warning and decision to revise the labeling of proton pump inhibitors are based on the Agency’s review of several epidemiological studies that reported an increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist and spine in patients using proton pump inhibitors.
Do I have a Vimovo 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 Vimovo lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Vimovo, 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.