Pharmaceutical companies have a responsibility to consumers. When they come out with new drugs, they are responsible to perform testing to ensure they are safe for use and are also responsible for notifying the public about potential risks associated with the medications, whether they discover them before or after they hit the market.
Unfortunately, in some cases, drug manufacturing companies will knowingly withhold information from the public to make a profit. When this happens, these companies can and should be held accountable for their actions. In other cases, the company may not have been aware of certain risks associated with a medication, particularly with long term use. In this case, the manufacturer may still be required to compensate affected people and their families.
At The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, we are dedicated to helping individuals and families who are affected by dangerous or recalled drugs recover financial compensation for their pain and suffering as well as the medical costs and other financial losses associated with their injuries.
When Is a Drug Recalled?
When it is discovered that a drug’s risks outweigh its benefits, it may be recalled from the market. A drug recall is an action taken voluntarily by a drug maker or required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to remove a defective drug from the market.
Drug recalls can fall into the following categories:
- Class I Recall: A class I recall is issued when there is a probable risk that use of the drug will cause serious side effects or death.
- Class II Recall: A class II recall is issued when a drug might increase the risk of temporary side effects or when the possible side effects are remote.
- Market Withdrawal: A market withdrawal occurs when a drug has a minor violation; in these cases, the company will withdrawal the drug from the market and fix the problem.
If you are taking a drug that has been recalled, you should contact your health care provider for more information.
Contact a San Diego Personal Injury Attorney for Help
If you believe you’ve been injured by a recalled or dangerous drug, you may be able to seek compensation. To find out if you qualify to file a claim, contact a San Diego personal injury lawyer at The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C. today.