Class-action suit filed over heart drug

-CalgaryHerald

01/09/2009- A Calgary law firm has launched a class-action suit against pharmaceutical giant Bayer Inc. for its drug Trasylol, alleging it causes kidney failure, stroke and other serious health problems.

Docken and Company said Thursday it filed the action on behalf of patients who received the medication during heart surgery, including Calgarian Bob Zerebecki.

The lawsuit alleges Zerebecki, now 62, suffered a serious stroke just hours after the 2006 surgery where doctors gave him Trasylol, leaving the former calculus and physics teacher unable to work. "It's caused a lot of pain and suffering for a lot of families," said lawyer Andrew Bone.

The allegations are contained in a statement of claim and have not been proven in court.

A spokesperson for Bayer could not be reached for comment late Thursday.

Trasylol is a drug, administered during heart surgery that reduces blood loss and the need for transfusions.

In November 2007, Bayer stopped marketing Trasylol after a study found the drug was associated with a higher death rate than other similar medications. In Canada, Bayer and Health Canada continued to make Trasylol available to some high-risk patients when physicians determined it was necessary.

The lawsuit alleges Bayer knew "or ought to have known, that Trasylol increased the risk of renal (kidney) failure, (heart attacks),heart failure and stroke" and failed to inform patients of the risks.

Zerebecki's wife Bev said Thursday the couple is pursuing legal action, in part, to raise awareness about potential problems with the medication.

Ennis & Ennis, P.A. is representing individuals that have been harmed as a result of Trasylol side effects. If you or a loved one have suffered as a result of Trasylol side effects such as kidney failure, heart attack, or stroke you may be entitled to compensation. For more information about a Trasylol lawsuit, a possible Trasylol recall, or for questions regarding Trasylol class action lawsuits click here for a free, confidential case evaluation.