Synthroid, known generically as levothyroxine, is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4), and it is one of the most commonly prescribed medications worldwide. Its purpose is to replace or provide more thyroid hormone, which is normally produced by the thyroid gland. The thyroid hormone is vital to the body’s metabolism and growth, affecting almost every physiological process, from energy expenditure to heart rate to temperature regulation.
Synthroid was first approved by the FDA in 1955 and has since been used to treat hypothyroidism in its various forms, from the milder subclinical hypothyroidism often seen in the elderly to the severe hypothyroidism that can occur after thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine treatment. Over the years, it has gained popularity due to its effectiveness, once-daily dosing, affordability, and the fact that its levels can be precisely monitored in the blood.
Despite its widespread use and generally well-tolerated nature, Synthroid has faced controversies and legal challenges. One of the main points of contention has been the FDA’s determination in the early 1990s that all brands of levothyroxine, including Synthroid, were “new drugs” and needed to submit new drug applications (NDAs).
Before that time, levothyroxine products had been on the market without approved NDAs, essentially being sold and distributed under an “assumed approval” status due to their long history of use. This regulatory change led to a protracted period of uncertainty and adjustments in the marketplace.
There have also been legal challenges related to Synthroid. Several class-action lawsuits have been filed and settled over the years related to misleading marketing and pricing practices. In one notable case in 1997, the manufacturer faced accusations of suppressing a study that showed Synthroid was no better than its cheaper competitors. The company agreed to a $135 million settlement, one of the largest settlements for a lawsuit of this kind at the time.
Further, Synthroid has been at the center of debates over the interchangeability of brand-name and generic levothyroxine products. Some studies suggest that brand-name Synthroid and generic versions may not be exactly equivalent in their effects, leading to potential issues when patients switch from one to another. This has resulted in a confusing situation for patients and doctors alike and has underscored the importance of consistent monitoring of thyroid hormone levels.
In recent years, concerns have been raised about the potential adverse effects of Synthroid, especially in certain populations such as the elderly and those with heart disease. While Synthroid is generally considered safe when taken as directed, it can cause side effects, particularly if one receives more than their required dose. These can range from relatively mild symptoms like nervousness and increased appetite to more severe issues like rapid or irregular heartbeat, which may be life-threatening.
Despite these controversies and challenges, Synthroid remains a cornerstone of hypothyroid treatment. Its decades of use have provided substantial evidence for its efficacy and safety, and ongoing research continues to refine our understanding of its optimal use in various patient populations.
If you or a loved one has experienced adverse effects from Synthroid, it may be beneficial to consult with a personal injury lawyer who is knowledgeable about class action lawsuits. With their help, you can understand your rights and explore your options for seeking compensation for your injuries. LegalMatch can assist by connecting you with a lawyer who can provide the advice and representation you need.
What Are the Side Effects of Taking Synthroid or Levothyroxine?
While Synthroid or levothyroxine is beneficial to many people suffering from hypothyroidism, like any medication, it can come with a range of side effects. These side effects can vary from mild to severe, depending on the dosage and the individual’s reaction to the medication.
Mild side effects may include weight loss, increased appetite, insomnia, excessive sweating, heat sensitivity, and nervousness. While uncomfortable, these symptoms usually disappear as your body adjusts to the medication.
However, some patients experience more severe side effects, including chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, mood changes, tremors, swelling of the ankles or feet, and difficulty breathing. An overdose can lead to symptoms like seizures, loss of consciousness, and even coma. If you experience any severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Injuries Caused by Synthroid or Levothyroxine?
If you’ve suffered from severe side effects or injuries after taking Synthroid or levothyroxine, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Determining liability can be complex and often depends on the specific circumstances surrounding the injuries.
Pharmaceutical Companies
One of the most significant responsibilities of a pharmaceutical company is to provide accurate and comprehensive information about the medication it manufactures, including potential side effects, contraindications, and any necessary precautions. For instance, if a pharmaceutical company knew that Synthroid could cause severe heart problems but failed to mention these risks on the product label, they could be found liable for injuries resulting from these undisclosed side effects.
In another scenario, if a batch of Synthroid was contaminated during the manufacturing process and led to adverse reactions, the pharmaceutical company could be held responsible for producing a faulty product.
Doctors
Doctors play a critical role in patient care and are expected to uphold a certain standard of care. If they prescribe Synthroid or levothyroxine, they should monitor the patient’s thyroid levels and adjust the dosage accordingly. For instance, assume a doctor prescribes an excessively high dosage of Synthroid to a patient with a history of heart problems without adequate monitoring, and the patient suffers a heart attack. In that case, the doctor could potentially be held liable for medical malpractice.
Similarly, if a doctor fails to take into account a patient’s medications that could interact negatively with Synthroid, resulting in serious health issues, they could be found negligent.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies and pharmacists are responsible for correctly filling prescriptions given by healthcare providers. If a pharmacist misreads a prescription and gives a patient a dosage of Synthroid that is too high, and the patient suffers adverse effects as a result, the pharmacy could be held liable for their mistake. Alternatively, if a pharmacy mistakenly dispenses a stronger version of levothyroxine when a lower dose was prescribed, and the patient suffers an injury from the higher dose, the pharmacy could be found responsible.
Do I Need a Lawyer for Help With Synthroid or Levothyroxine Lawsuit?
Dealing with injuries or adverse effects from a medication like Synthroid or levothyroxine can be incredibly stressful and emotionally draining. Pursuing a lawsuit against pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, or pharmacies can be a complex process.
Hiring a personal injury lawyer or getting involved in a class action lawsuit can significantly help your case. A knowledgeable lawyer can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, gather the necessary evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
If multiple people have experienced similar harm from Synthroid or levothyroxine, a class action lawsuit might be an option. In such cases, a group of plaintiffs comes together to sue a defendant or a group of defendants.
To determine your best course of action, consider reaching out to an experienced class action attorney through LegalMatch. They can provide you with a free, no-obligation consultation and help you understand your legal options.
Don’t let the pain and suffering caused by a faulty drug go uncompensated—seek out a class action lawyer today to help you fight for the justice you deserve.
