Valsartan and Stomach Cancer: What You Need to Know

According to the CDC’s website, almost 30% of people in the U.S. suffer from high blood pressure. An additional 1 million Americans experience a heart attack every year. One of the primary heart medications designed to treat high blood pressure and heart failure is the drug valsartan. Valsartan is a drug which works to tighten blood vessels and lower blood pressure.

But according to the FDA and EPA, there may also be a certain amount of risk for larger issues over time in patients taking a valsartan prescription. In 2017, it is estimated that more than a million and a half Americans received an SGLT2 inhibitor medication packaged at a U.S. outpatient retail facility. Then, in 2018, the FDA issued a valsartan recall in the USA.

Based on statistics from the manufacturer, levels of the impurity may have been included in valsartan doses for as long as 4 years. FDA experts have estimated that in a sample size of 8,000, those taking a high dose of valsartan from the recalled batches of the medication every day for 4 years, there is an increased chance of cancer in at least one of these 8,000 patients.

It was this determination that finally led them to recall the drug in the United States. And since the valsartan recall, FDA experts have expanded their warnings and added details to their assessment.

Some of the general side effects of taking valsartan may include:

• Dizziness/lightheadedness
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Sinusitis
• Stomach pain
• Blurred vision
• Itching/rashes
• Back pain
• Upset stomach
• Joint pain

When it comes to the relationship between valsartan and stomach cancer, what you need to know extends far beyond the inherent side effects associated with taking the the drug. Valsartan and cancer risk in the US may be linked in more ways than one. It is also believed that Valsartan can also cause stomach ulcers, as well as cause high blood potassium levels, which can lead to more serious problems like slowed heart rate, and heartbeat irregularities.

The side effects of valsartan may include stomach pain; but sometimes, the extent of damage can be even more severe. And there are a few side effects that could indicate a much more serious problem, like kidney failure or stomach cancer:

• Vomiting
• Swelling of the skin
• Weight loss
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath

If you live in Texas, or elsewhere in the U.S. and you take valsartan and are experiencing any of the above side effects, contact your doctor. You should never alter your medication intake without first consulting your medical professional. After this, you should seek the assistance of a U.S. attorney to pursue compensation for your damages. The U.S. Product Liability Lawyers at Carabin Shaw will work tirelessly on your behalf. It is recommended that you remain vigilant about your situation.

In order to pursue legal action, patients must have used valsartan for at least 6 months (and preferably up to 1 year) before a cancer diagnosis due to a latency issue. Patients must also have a usage of at least 30 days between the year 2014 to present to pursue a legal settlement.

If you or a loved one has been affected in some way by the valsartan recall, your case may require legal action in the form of a valsartan recall lawsuit. In these instances, obtaining legal compensation is your best chance for full compensation. When it comes to valsartan and stomach cancer, what you need to know is that you are not alone

For more information, contact the experienced U.S. lawyers from Carabin Shaw today. At Carabin Shaw, we understand that every case is different, and we believe that no one should cope with these circumstances alone.

One of our knowledgeable U.S. attorneys can help you organize the facts, determine culpability, and seek compensation for your damages. You can reach us at our toll free number anytime day or night, at 800-862-1260. We have representatives available around the clock to answer all your questions.