Are You at Risk from At Home Beauty Treatments?

At home beauty treatments can be a huge time saver and savings to busy people.  However, they can also cause serious injury.  Even when you've read the directions and performed the at home beauty treatment faithfully, you could be at risk for injury. 

In one instance, the law firm of Bond & Taylor has had clients complain of injuries due to at home beauty treatments.  These consumer complaints have centered on the Sally Hansen at home Microwavable Eyebrow, Face & Lip Wax Kit.  Clients have complained of injuries resulting in exploding wax.  According to clients, after microwaving the wax product, a ring formed on the top which boiled over instantly and exploded.  This caused some consumers serious injuries. 

Are You at Risk

At home beauty treatments can be extremely risky because there are a number of factors that manufacturers may not be able to foresee.  This may include the differences in microwave temperatures, consumer understanding of the directions, ambiguity of directions, environmental conditions, you name it.  

When consumers experience injury as the result of home beauty treatments, they could be faced with lasting injuries such as severe burns and scars.  In the case of Bond & Taylor's clients injured by the Sally Hansen Microwavable Eyebrow, Face & Lip Wax Kit, some of these clients were left with lasting injuries which could severely affect their quality of life. This could include the following unforseen difficulties:

• damage to their appearance
• inability to work
• inability to lead a normal life
• inability to reproduce 
• severe damage to organs
• and more

If you've been injured by your at home beauty treatment, you should contact a product liability attorney who understands what you may be suffering through.  Obtain the help you need instead of suffering in silence. 

FDA Rejects Potential Menopause Drugs to Protect Women

When it comes to menopause, women are offered few options to obtain relief from hot flashes and hormonal changes which can wreak havoc on the body.  Recently, 2 medications were introduced that offered hope for non- hormonal treatment of hot flashes.  But the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has shot them down.  The FDA's advisory committee for reproductive health drugs found that these 2 drugs offered little benefit over a placebo, only marginally reducing hot flashes in patients.  It seems menopausal women are going to have to obtain relief elsewhere- with home remedies, herbal supplements, or hormonal therapy.  However, are menopausal women at risk for injury from existing treatments?  Is there a need for better treatments that won't cause injury? 

Is there a Risk of Injury to Consumers

Menopausal women are often at a loss when it comes to treating symptoms such as hot flashes.  Previously, hormonal therapy was considered a life saver.  Doctors would prescribe progesterone and estrogen to menopausal women, providing relief from hot flashes.  However, a study in 2002 entitled the Women's Health Initiative found that the increased use of these hormones could be responsible for increased cardiovascular problems and breast cancer.  This combination hormone therapy has since fallen out of favor among women concerned that they may face these serious injuries. 

Many doctors and advocates for reproductive treatments claim that there is a great need for treatments which will bring menopausal women relief without the risk for injury.  Often, these same advocates cite the ineffectiveness of home remedies and herbal treatments.  Crying out for new medications, these advocates have often pushed the FDA to investigate new medications which could provide relief to menopausal women. However, the FDA takes the strong position that they will not budge on risking injury to consumers in favor of approving only marginally effective medications.

As this continues to develop, reproductive health advocates will continue to monitor treatment options and their safety.  Had the FDA approved drugs due to the pressure of patient advocates and not according to their own safety guidelines, there is a potential that women may have faced a risk for injury. As skilled personal injury attorneys, we would rather the FDA stick to their guns and protect women from injury than to fold to pressure. 

Monster Fights Back Against Caffeine Toxicity Suit

In 2012, a little girl in Maryland died after she allegedly consumed 2 large Monster energy drinks.  Her family has sued Monster, claiming their daughter died as a result of their dangerous overly caffeinated formula.  However, in an examination of the girl's medical records, Monster's attorneys are claiming that her heart condition was responsible for her death, not Monster's energy drinks.

It begs the question whether or not these hyper- caffeinated energy drinks are safe for consumers with heart conditions or other such previous health conditions.  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently investigating 5 deaths that they believe may be associated with Monster energy drinks. It has yet to release data on whether or not the energy drinks were responsible.

Caffeine Toxicity

The fear behind the investigations into energy drinks is whether or not these drinks caused caffeine toxicity and became fatal.  Emergency rooms have claimed they see thousands more patients in the emergency room with symptoms of caffeine overdose.  This includes the following symptoms and reactions:

• jitters, nervousness, anxiety
• sweating
• nausea, vomiting
• dizziness
• irregular heartbeat
• cardiac arrest
• death

This could be achieved with 200-500 mg of caffeine but consumers with caffeine sensitivity may even die as a result of even small amounts of caffeine. If you experience these symptoms of caffeine toxicity, you should get medical attention and call a skilled product liability attorney.  

Flour Recall Could Cause Consumer Injury

2013 is certainly beginning to shape up as the year when food safety has come into focus.  With so much intense scrutiny on the products we ingest and the resulting injuries, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has seemingly increased its efforts to protect people.  Recently, the FDA has recalled a limited number of flour because of the presence of foreign objects in the flour bags.  

Limited lots of King Arthur Flour reportedly contain small blue polyurethane balls used in the sifting process.  These balls could potentially contaminate the flour and could provide a choking hazard.  While the company says these balls are easily viewed in the flour, they have been recalled as a precautionary measure to prevent consumer injury. 

Danger to Consumers

When food or food products are tainted with foreign objects, consumers are at significant risk for injury.  This could range from a variety of conditions, including:

• nausea, vomiting
• heart attack, stroke
• blood clots
• bacteria infection
• internal organ damage
• death

Depending upon how our food or food products are tainted, there could be a variety of illnesses or injuries that consumers could experience.  If you have ingested tainted food, you should seek immediate medical help.  You should also contact a skilled product liability attorney to help you obtain the relief you need.

Feds Charge Peanut Corp Execs for Deadly Salmonella Outbreak

If you've been scanning the news today, then you've likely seen that federal prosecutors have indicted key people in a now disbanded peanut processing corporation.  If you recall in 2009, over 700 people in 46 states were injured with salmonella from peanuts.  9 of those people later died.  It was the biggest food recall due to salmonella concerns in the history of the US.  

Today, federal prosecutors are alleging that key executives had knowledge that these peanuts were tainted with salmonella and released them anyways, endangering the lives of their customers.  This serious allegation includes charges of fraud and conspiracy. If federal prosecutors are successful in their case, executives of the former Peanut Corp of America will face jail time.  Of the 5 executives charged, one has already pled guilty.  The rest await trial.

The Danger for Consumer Injury

If the executives of Peanut Corp America knowingly released salmonella infected peanuts into the food supply, as the US Justice Dept claims, then there was a high potential for consumer injury. When people eat products tainted with salmonella, they become infected with the bacteria and are at great risk for the following injuries:

• nausea, vomiting
• dehydration
• organ damage
• liver damage
• joint pains
• painful urination
• chronic carthritis
• death

Salmonella poisoning can sound like no big deal, but knowingly infecting people with salmonella tainted products means the executives knowingly risked people's health and even death.  Salmonella may sound harmless, but it can be deadly. 

If you have become ill or have lost a loved one due to salmonella tainted products, you should contact a skilled product liability attorney today.  Protect your rights and consult a skilled product liability attorney to determine whether or not you can be compensated for these injuries.

Consumers Blame Depuy Hip Implants for Injuries

If you've got a hip replacement, you know that the rods in your hip and thigh are extremely important and may be the only things keeping you mobile.  But if you've got a Depuy ASR XL Acetabular System, you may have a ticking time bomb inside of you.  

First introduced into the marketplace in 2005, Johnson & Johnson's Depuy brand ASR XL Acetabular System did not undergo rigorous clinical testing because they petitioned the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to allow this product because it was substantially similar to products already on the marketplace. 

As of 2008, reports began pouring in to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration alleging high failure rates.  Since this time, over 400 consumers have reported injuries and hip implant failures.  In 2010, the device was recalled over concerns that 1/8 patients experienced injury and hip implant failure. 

The Alleged Danger of Depuy Hip Implants

Consumers allege a variety of injuries due to the failure of their Depuy ASR XL Acetabular System hip implants.  This metal on metal hip implant was blamed for many injuries that were problematic for patients.  These injuries included:

• serious infections
• metal fragments coming loose and damaging organs
• bone fractures
• pain and swelling
• nerve damage
• high levels of metal in the blood
• tissue damage
• muscle damage
• necrosis or tissue death

These alleged injuries caused many patients serious pain and inspired hundreds to file suit against Johnson & Johnson.  In these lawsuits, patients allege that Johnson & Johnson's device caused them injury and that they should have known the dangers their product posed to consumers.  If you have been injured by your Depuy hip implant, you should seek both medical attention and the skilled advice of a product liability attorney. Obtain the compensation you need and call a skilled product liability attorney today.

Glass Shards in TV Dinners Cause Recall

If you're like me, some days you just don't feel like cooking.  But when you reach for those tv dinners to reheat, did you know you could be at risk for swallowing glass or other harmful substances?  Before you swallow a hunk of glass and injure yourself, read the facts about the recent Lean Cuisine recall. 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced today that Lean Cuisine is recalling one of its popular tv dinners over fear that there may be glass shards in the dinner.  Only applicable to the Lean Cuisine Culinary Collection Mushroom Mezzaluna Ravioli that expires in December 2013, lots numbered 2311587812 or 2312587812, consumers are at relatively low risk for swallowing hunks of glass. But to ensure complete safety, the company has issued a recall in conjunction with the FDA to enforce safety standards.

The Danger of Glass Shards in Food

When consumers bite down into their food, glass shards could present a serious hazard for injury.  These shards may appear to be small and therefore unobtrusive, but to swallow and digest glass, a person could seriously injure themselves.  This could include the following:

• cutting their throat
• perforating the lining of their stomach or intestines
• internal bleeding
• internal organ damage
• pain and swelling
• infection
• death

If a consumer swallows glass, this could cause serious injuries.  Consumers are advised to inspect their Lean Cuisine Culinary Collection Mushroom Mezzaluna Ravioli dinners to ensure that they are not included in the recalled lots.  If consumers find these recalled lots in their freezer, they should immediately return them to the supermarket explaining that they'd like a refund for the recalled item.  Or consumers should throw it out.  Consumers are advised against eating a product which may contain shards of glass for fear of injury.  

If you have been injured consuming products which contain shards of glass, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. You should contact a skilled product liability and personal injury attorney today.  Your injuries could be severe and a skilled attorney could help you to collect the money you need to move on with your life.

Health Dept Finds Only 4 of 40 Massachusetts Compounding Pharmacies Pass Safety Inspections

When the fungal meningitis outbreak occurred as a result of contamination in a compounding pharmacy, the fallout left health officials scrambling to exert more power over these organizations.  In the wake of this outbreak, the pressure has been on compounding pharmacies to live up to the same standards that pharmacies currently need to meet in order to do business.  Massachusetts Department of Public Health has begun a series of surprise health inspections and the results are out.  Only 4 of the 40 compounding pharmacies inspected passed their inspections.  Could that place patients at severe risk of illness if they're using medications from these compounding pharmacies?

The Danger for Injury to Consumers

After the fungal meningitis crisis sickened over 700 people and killed approximately 45 people, increased attention was focused upon whether or not these compounding facilities were following the rules of sterile facilities.  This recent report by the Massachusetts Department of Health confirms suspicions- that after years of not being forced to conform to recognized safety guidelines, these compounding facilities largely aren't.  Should these facilities produce medications in unsterile environments, a number of injuries could happen, including:

• bacteria infections
• exotic diseases
• mass sickness
• loss of limbs
• swelling in the brain
• stroke, heart attack
• paralysis
• death

Depending upon the compounding pharmacies' conditions, consumers could face exotic infections and diseases which could cause them to lose limbs, suffer swelling in the brain, and even die.  Sterile conditions are extremely important when it comes to manufacturing drugs and should be enforced at all times. 

If you buy your medications from a compounding pharmacy and have fallen ill, you should seek immediate medical help.  You should also call a skilled personal injury attorney to help you gain the compensation you need. 

Alfalfa Sprouts Recalled Amid Listeria Bacteria Fears

If you're like many people in America, your New Year's resolution likely focused upon getting healthier or losing weight.  If you've changed your eating habits to include more fresh greens, you may be surprised to learn that recently, a manufacturer of alfalfa sprouts, named Life Force, has recalled nearly a ton of their products.  

Following a "surveillance sampling" of their products, Life Force found that some of its products may be contaminated with Listeria, and volunteered to recall approximately 1,953 pounds of its alfalfa sprouts products in order to prevent injury to consumers.  These alfalfa sprouts, due to expire between January 26 and 31 were sold through Life Force's retail chain between January 10 and 18. The FDA recommends returning the items for a refund or throwing the products away. 

The Danger of Injury to Consumers

Typically, the Listeria bacteria invades human bodies through the gastrointestinal tract.  Consumed as a part of food infected with Listeria bacteria, this can cause humans to become extremely ill and could carry a high potential for death in people with weak immune systems such as children, the elderly, and even those who have had their immune systems compromised due to disease.

Once infected, people can become extremely ill with the following symptoms:

• vomiting, nausea
• fever
• dehydration 
• vision problems
• circulation problems
• death

If you have been injured consuming tainted products such as these alfalfa sprouts, please seek immediate medical attention. You might also want to consult a skilled product liability attorney to gain compensation for your injuries if you are eligible.

Bugaboo International Recalls Over 50,000 Strollers Due to Fears of Child Injury

High end strollers have been very popular among parents these days.  But according to a recent stroller recall notice, apparently they can be extremely dangerous in some situations. According to the recall notice from Bugaboo International, there's a button that can dislodge on their donkey and cameleon strollers, causing the handle to detach and risk injury to the child.

Over 50,000 of these strollers have been recalled, mostly in the United States.  Approximately 46,300 strollers in the United States are being recalled and another 4,440 are being recalled in Canada.  Out of the recalled lot, approximately 58 parents have reported the issue, causing concern for injury to children in the stroller. Both of the recalled strollers were sold between 2009 and 2012, so newer versions of these strollers are not included in the recall. 

The Risk of Injury with Defective Strollers

If a stroller is defective or faulty, children are at great risk for injury.  Without control of the device, parents could potentially watch their child injured in many ways, including:

• falling
• choking
• slamming into something
• breaking bones
• heavy items falling on them

The possibilities are nearly endless because of the many  situations that could arise when a stroller's handle detaches.  What is clear is that parents could potentially lose control of the device and children may be injured.  

If Your Child Has Been Injured

If your child has suffered an injury due to a defective stroller, you could be entitled to compensation for those injuries.  You should not be forced to suffer because a product does not perform within its safety guidelines. If your child is injured, call a skilled product liability attorney today to discuss your rights.

New Study Suggests Americans at Higher Rate for Injury, Death Due to Lifestyle

Americans live in a society where food and healthcare are readily available.  But would it surprise you to learn that didn't mean Americans were necessarily any healthier than people in other countries?  A new study from the National Research Council and Institute of Medicine asserts Americans are less healthy than 16 other nations, including Japan, Canada, Australia, Britain, France, Portugal, Italy and Germany.  

Researchers identified multiple areas where Americans' health was remarkably poorer at almost every age.  According to the report, we have higher rates of infant mortality, die younger from diabetes and heart disease, are more likely to be murdered or die from a gun, and do poorer in areas such as AIDS, drug abuse, obesity, lung disease, and disabilities.  

What Our Poor Health Means

Poor health can translate to a variety of different outcomes from mortality rates to budget problems.  Healthcare spending is at an all time high, with approximately $8,600 spent per person per year in America.  Yet despite these figures, we are no healthier nor are we any safer from accidents, disease, or disorders. 

In the study, researchers identified:

• Americans are 7 times more likely to be murdered than peers in other countries
• Americans are 20 times more likely to be killed by a gun
• Americans have higher infant mortality rates with 32.7 deaths per 100,000 people compared with peers in other countries with half that rate
• American men live the shortest lives than their counterparts, only living 75.6 years on average
• American women live to be 81 on average, shorter than their counterparts in other countries

What's surprising is that we don't face all of these issues as widespread health issues.  Rarely will you hear of accidents and fatalities associated with crime being lumped in with healthcare. 

Ways to Improve Our Health

Researchers feel that Americans need to get serious about their health.  This includes eating healthier, exercising more, and shifting cultural norms so we are safer from violent crime and accidents.  It seems like a nearly impossible feat when you lump it all together.  How would something like this be accomplished?  If you're looking for advice and help towards living a healthier life, you should ask your doctor for recommendations on lifestyle adjustments.  If you're concerned about an injury sustained in an accident, you should contact a personal injury lawyer to help you and to help send a message that we as Americans need to take our safety more seriously. 

Fisher Price Recalls 800K Infant Sleepers Fearing Mold May Cause Infants Injury

As a parent, there are a variety of items that seem like life savers when your child is being fussy or difficult.  One such item is the Fisher- Price Newborn Rock N' Play Sleeper, which many parents describe as the only thing that helped them get their child to sleep.  Those days of blissfully sleeping through the night may be a distant memory for parents because today the Consumer Product Safety Commission has recalled the item, warning parents to inspect the estimated 800,000 sleepers sold since September 2009. 

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Fisher- Price Newborn Rock N' Play Sleeper carried risk of mold exposure for infants.  Between the removable seat cushion and the hard plastic frame, mold could grow and flourish.  Fisher- Price reports that they have received 600 reports of mold.  Additionally, 16 infants had been treated for respiratory reactions. Could mold cause severe injury for your child? 

The Dangers of Mold Exposure 

Mold sounds pretty harmless, but it can be extremely dangerous to people when they've been exposed to it over time.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people exposed to mold could experience the following reactions and injuries:

• shortness of breath
• lung infections
• hives, skin rashes
• memory problems
• headaches, migraines
• swollen glands in your neck
• open sores on your skin
• hair loss
• asthma and other breathing disorders
• ear infections
• fatigue
• nausea, vomiting

These are common injuries that adults experience. Now picture your infant being exposed to mold over prolonged periods of time.  This could be extremely serious for a child who has not yet developed an immune system capable of fighting the ill effects of mold exposure. Could you live with injuring your child on a constant basis?

If Your Child Has Been Injured

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is taking steps jointly with Fisher- Price to warn parents that they could be exposing their child to mold.  They are asking parents to inspect their sleepers to guard against injury.  However, if your child has suffered severe injuries you suspect are the result of exposure to mold in this product, you may want to seek out the advice of a skilled product liability attorney.  By contacting a skilled product liability attorney, you can find out whether your child's injuries may qualify you for compensation.  Call a skilled product liability attorney today to discuss your case and how to help restore your child's good health. 

FDA Proposes New Food Safety Rules to Prevent Consumer Injury

Food safety is a growing issue among Americans.  In the past year, there have been multiple high profile food recalls for fresh greens, peanuts, and meat.  And according to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 1 in 6 Americans becomes sick from eating contaminated food every year.  The FDA estimates that of this total, 130,000 Americans are hospitalized with 3,000 of those individuals dying as a result of their food contamination.  In a society with advanced technologies and hygienic processes, why are we dying from contaminated food?

The FDA Seeks to Increase Food Safety 

Two years ago, Congress passed a controversial food safety bill, the Food Safety Modernization Act, signed into law on January 4, 2011.  After 2 years of debate within the FDA, they have finally come to an agreement on how the FDA will seek to increase consumers' safety and further regulate food production.  Approximately 80% of the food produced in America is regulated by the FDA, the rest being monitored by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The law was introduced in reaction to a growing trend towards food imports.  With growing deaths and illness associated with food safety and splashy food recalls headlining the news, consumers are looking to the federal government to protect them and look after their safety. This new law, and the associated FDA guidelines are intended to take back control over the food industry, determining proactive safety measures rather than relying on failed legal reactionary measures of the past.

After 2 years of debating complex food issues spanning a wide variety of food sources and food systems, the FDA has agreed upon the following rule changes:

• written safety plans for food production
• analysis of contamination hazards
• food contamination prevention policies
• increased food safety monitoring
• food safety corrective actions 
• records that the FDA may use to audit the facility
• additional food safety verifications required of out of the country importers

Preventing Public Risk of Food Contamination Injury

The new guidelines are still under debate with calls for public inquiry and debate.  However, it is a positive step towards ensuring the public's safety.  Currently, the system is very reactionary. Often, legal remedies are pursued after a food contamination scare has been announced.  Product liability attorneys routinely represent individuals who were harmed by a product they ingested. These new rules encourage a more proactive prevention of food borne illnesses instead.  Perhaps less people will fall seriously ill and die as a result of these new rules. 

Honda Announces Major Recall of US Vehicles

The folks over at Honda have been busy. Last October, they issued a massive recall of over half a million Honda Accords due to concerns over fire risks in engines.  Now, Honda has announced another massive recall wherein they plan to recall over 871,000 vehicles for a potential parking security defect.  According to Honda, there's a potential that when people place the car in park, it may still roll away.

To Honda's credit, they have responded with quick recalls after only 2 minor reports of injuries associated with these potential car defects.  But does this kind of response indicate prior knowledge of the problems?  Or is it indicative of a car company who is consumer focused despite what will be a hefty price tag for the car maker? 

Recall Details- Affected Vehicles

Honda is recalling nearly a million cars world wide.  This includes:

• 347,244 Honda Odysseys
• 276,850 Honda Passports (years 2003-2004)
• 247,179 Acura MDX's (years 2003-2006)

According to the car maker, 807,000 of these vehicles are located in the United States and the rest are located in Canada.  Car owners are encouraged to call their dealership for more information about the recall and to see if their vehicle is included in the recall list. 

Based upon the car maker's investigation, this issue could be potentially serious.  Honda released information which stated when the car's transmission wasn't in park, the interlock device could become worn enough where the key could be removed. Therefore, if the transmission was not parked and the driver had not put up the parking break, the vehicle could potentially roll into the street and cause a car crash. 

If You've Been Injured and Need Legal Info

In a country with strict product liability laws, these recalls seem prudent.  In the United States, our product liability laws allow for unlimited liability damages whereas many Asian countries like China and Japan have strict liability laws limiting the amount of compensation an injured victim may receive.

If you've been injured by this potential defect, call a skilled personal injury and product liability attorney.  An experienced lawyer can help you to determine whether or not you have a case and what you might be able to expect from your lawsuit.  

FDA Issues Black Box Warning on Hepatitis C Drug Over Deadly Skin Rashes

The FDA has issued another warning and this one's a doozy.  Apparently, fatal skin rashes have been linked to a popular Hepatitis C drug, called Incivek, made by Vertex Pharmaceuticals. The FDA has issued a "black box warning" on the drug, warning that the medication could potentially be fatal to patients.

This drug had fallen out of favor by doctors because they anticipated newer drugs coming to market.  Additionally, since its approval in 2011, skin rashes have been a persistent problem in patients.  However, the FDA warning has struck a major blow against Vertex Pharmaceutical's Hepatitis C program. 

How Incivek Worked

Incivek was originally approved as a Hepatitis C drug to use in conjunction with an older intravenous drug to treat patients' liver.  When patients develop Hepatitis C, the infection attacks their liver, eventually causing cancer in many cases. The most serious of all strains of Hepatitis, Hepatitis C could literally take decades to show up and rapidly kill patients. 

Incivek was developed in order to be used in combination therapy.  Used in conjunction with such drugs as peginterferon alfa and ribavirin, Incivek was a "direct acting antiviral" which targeted the Hepatitis C virus directly.  In combination, the drugs were intended to eradicate the virus before it multiplied and destroyed the patient's liver.

The Danger of Incivek

Two patients in Japan recently developed toxic epidermal necrolysis, which was a fatal rash.  Having been inundated with reports of skin rashes since its FDA approval, the FDA took these reports seriously and issued a black box warning to patients still using the medication. 

Patients using Incivek are encouraged to talk to their doctors and to seek medical attention if they develop skin rashes.  Should symptoms progress seriously, patients are also encouraged to seek the advice of a skilled product liability attorney to preserve their rights.  

Yaz Litigation Underway

You used to see those Yaz commercials all the time on tv.  They always seemed to feature a pretty girl who was fun, outgoing, flirty and having the time of her life whatever she was doing.  I realized I haven't seen those in a while.  Maybe that's because in 2012, the birth control pill, Yaz, and its manufacturers were put on trial.

To date, available information online suggests manufacturer Bayer has settled with over 3,500 patients totaling over $750 million.  But to many consumers, the source of these continuing lawsuits is a bit of a mystery.

Why the Yaz Lawsuits?


In 2012, an estimated 10,000 women sued the manufacturer alleging serious side effects as a result of taking this birth control pill. Many of these women claimed that as a result of the aforementioned commercials, they took the pill hoping to cure ailments that Yaz was not approved by the FDA to treat. The FDA characterized these advertisements as misleading. If you remember early advertisements, the actress made bold claims that taking Yaz might help with acne and other conditions. However, many women were faced with different results instead.

Among the lawsuits are claims that taking Yaz created problems such as:

• pulmonary embolisms
• deep vein thrombosis
• blood clots
• gallbladder disease
• stroke

There are still lawsuits being filed on behalf of women who have experienced severe health problems that they allege are the result of taking Yaz.  If you have been similarly hurt by taking Yaz, you might want to talk to a skilled product liability attorney to determine if you have a case.  You may be entitled to compensation for these injuries.

Congressmen Demand FDA Protect Consumers from Brazilian Blowout Allegedly Toxic Formula

If you were wondering what happened to the controversial Brazilian Blowout, you may not have to wonder for much longer.  A few years ago, reports began to circulate that stated consumers had been experiencing adverse reactions from their Brazilian Blowout treatment.  Many stylists had come forward, claiming they refused to use the product because of toxic chemicals, and the press ran many stories about the dangers associated with the Brazilian Blowout treatment.  A costly lawsuit seemed to drive the point home that this product was allegedly toxic. 

Now Congressional members have added their complaints to the mix.  Fox News reports that 3 members of Congress- Edward Markey (D- Mass.), Jan Schakowsky (D- Ill.), and Earl Blumenauer (D- Ore.) have written a letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) admonishing the agency that they should do more to protect consumers.

The Dangers of Brazilian Blowout Treatments

Brazilian Blowouts are popular hair treatments intended to straighten and smooth frizzy hair.  The product is made by GIB LLC.  Consumer complaints have steadily risen over the years, including many consumer calls for the manufacturer to voluntarily recall the product.  Last year, the FDA sent a letter to the manufacturer, warning that their products were "misbranded" and contained potentially dangerous levels of formaldehyde (which is widely known as a chemical used in funeral homes) despite labels stating the product was formaldehyde- free.  However, there has been no follow up action.

In California, GIB LLC was found guilty of violating Prop 65, which required labels to warn consumers of carcinogens in the product.  This cost the company $600,000 in fees, penalties, and costs. 

These Congressional members believe hairstylists are at risk working with these dangerous chemicals as well as patrons who are at risk being treated with these chemicals. Rep. Markey stated to the media, " The FDA should immediately take action to stop the sale of these potentially carcinogenic hair straightening products, and continue to evaluate whether to ban formaldehyde from hair straighteners altogether."

Should these concerns escalate to a ban of the product, the United States would be joining Canada, Ireland, and Australia, who have already banned these products for allegedly dangerous chemicals. 

Have You Been Hurt

Many patrons have experienced a variety of injuries and strange occurrences after receiving a Brazilian blowout.  This includes:

• losing all their hair
• scalp damage
• skin damage
• asthma attacks
• esophageal damage
• nose bleeds
• eyes burning
• nasopharyngeal cancer
• leukemia

Hair stylists remain at the greatest risk because they are performing the treatment multiple times per day.  When the formaldehyde is heated, a toxic gas is being released into the air, which the hair stylist or technician is likely breathing multiple times per day.

If you have been hurt by your Brazilian Blowout treatment, or if you have been injured administering this treatment, you may be entitled to compensation.  Call a skilled product liability attorney today to help you get the justice you deserve.  

Pradaxa Lawsuits Seek to Help Injured Pradaxa Patients

The Pradaxa litigation has begun and the discovery phase is well under way.  After hundreds of Pradaxa patients have died and thousands have suffered injury, over 150 initial cases against Pradaxa's manufacturer.  These cases have been consolidated into one multidistrict litigation case, which aims to expedite relief for patients who have suffered injury because of the drug.  In comparison to class action lawsuits, the injured parties in this case are allowed to file across the country in federal court to join the litigation.

What are the Pradaxa lawsuits about?

At the heart of the matter in the Pradaxa lawsuits is an assertion by injured patients that the manufacturer may have released a potentially fatal drug onto the market without a means for patients to reverse serious health outcomes.  To date, part of the issues discussed in the case is how Pradaxa compares to similar drugs in its class.  While this is a great starting point to understand how it differs significantly, the issue that many patients want to focus on is whether or not the company knew its drug could cause deaths when they released it onto the market.

If the plaintiffs can prove that the manufacturer released the drug irresponsibly, they will have a landmark case.  As the FDA's number one source for drug fatalities in 2011, these cases could have a huge price tag for manufacturers.  Since there is no reversal agent to prevent potentially fatal bleeding events, consumers may have a point.  What sort of safety or control options did the manufacturers prepare in case patients experienced severe side effects?  What did they think would be the result if there were side effects?

Seek help for Pradaxa injuries

If the judge determines manufacturers released the drug irresponsibly, there could literally be thousands of cases against Pradaxa's manufacturer.  Many injured patients are in need of relief to pay mounting medical bills and treat serious injuries.  The relief such a case may provide would go a long way to providing for these medical costs. If you or a loved one has been injured taking Pradaxa, you should consult a skilled product liability attorney today to determine whether you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

Actos Bladder Cancer Litigation Underway to Offer Patients Relief

Actos litigation is well underway. Federal Judge Rebecca Doherty has consolidated In Re: Actos (Pioglitazone) Products Liability Litigation into multidistrict litigation, which currently has over a thousand plaintiffs suing Takeda Pharmaceuticals and its subsidiaries.  Patients across the United States have filed suit in order to obtain expedited relief. 

At the heart of these lawsuits is a claim that plaintiffs were not alerted to the health risks inherent to taking Actos until too late.  Plaintiffs have asserted that the pharmaceutical giant knew or should have known of the dangers this drug posed to their health.  Many of these patients were shocked to develop life altering conditions after taking their medication, such as bladder cancer. 

What is Actos

Actos is a prescribed daily medication for diabetes type 2.  In conjunction with diet and exercise, Actos is intended to control the insulin resistance by raising the patient's sensitivity to insulin.  

Actos (pioglitazone) accounts for approximately 20% of the diabetes medication prescribed today.  Made by Takeda Pharmaceuticals and distributed by Eli Lilly, this drug has enjoyed massive distribution.  Approved in 1999, Actos accounts for over $5 billion in reported sales per year.  

The Alleged Problem with Actos

Actos was sold as the answer to Avandia, a drug which previously carried significant risks of heart attack.  The problem was that these "safer" claims did not appear to be consistent according to various research studies.  

In 1998, Kaiser Permanente began studying the effects of Actos, believing the statistical data in Actos' clinical trials did not tell the entire story of potential outcomes.  After 10 years, Kaiser published this study, concluding patients taking Actos had a 40% increased risk of developing bladder cancer.

This came as quite a shock to patients, who were already at increased risk of bladder cancer.  High risk patients were advised by the FDA to discuss alternative options with their doctors. 

If You Have Been Harmed

Actos litigation is still active.  If you have taken your Actos medication as prescribed and have later developed bladder cancer, heart failure, or suspicious bone fractures, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.  Patients suffering are encouraged to consult a skilled product liability and personal injury attorney to obtain the relief they need.

Compound Pharmacies Suffer Further Government Action

The lessons of the fungal meningitis outbreak at a popular Massachusetts compounding pharmacy have not been forgotten.  With 541 cases in 19 states and Congressional hearings into the CDC and FDA's power regarding compounding pharmacies, it remains a high priority.  You'd think that if any other compounding pharmacies in Massachusetts might heed the warnings and clean up their plants.  If you thought so, you'd be wrong.

According to the news today, Massachusetts' Department of Public Health served cease and desist letters on 3 more compounding pharmacies they allege were either made with improper ingredients or stored incorrectly.

Compounding Pharmacies are Under Scrutiny

Following the fungal meningitis outbreak, where 36 people died, regulatory bodies are changing.  The Massachusetts Pharmacy Board has added additional members from outside of the medical and pharmaceutical industry.  Their stated reasons are to discourage conflicts of interest and to provide better oversight.  One of their former board members was an executive to Ameridose, who owned a piece of the NECC, the compounding pharmacy at the heart of the fungal meningitis outbreak.

The FDA has taken the protection of the public health very seriously and has sought expanded powers to police pharmacies. In October, the FDA shut down over a thousand online pharmacies for violating existing pharmaceutical laws and guidelines. Perhaps compounding pharmacies will also be on the chopping block.

If You've Been Injured

If you've suffered an injury from a faulty product made by a compounding pharmacy, you could be entitled to compensation.  Your injuries could be serious and lasting, even deadly.  Call a skilled personal injury and product liability attorney to discuss your case today.