Valsartan is an ARB (angiotensin receptor blocker), a class of drugs designed to treat hypertension. Effective at relaxing blood vessels, Valsartan is intended to reduce risks for heart attack, stroke, and similar consequences of high blood pressure.
Side-effects of Valsartan include:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Muscle weakness
- Irregular heartbeat
Some patients have reported fainting as a side-effect of Valsartan as well, though the drug is not considered dangerous or defective.
At least, not on its own.
NDMA
N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) is an industrial waste product. Necessary for things like rocket fuel, NDMA is a probable human carcinogen and has been classified as an “extremely hazardous substance” in the United States.
According to the EPA, NDMA may be a byproduct of manufacturing pesticides or rubber. It may also come from tanneries, foundries, dye manufacturers, and fish processing facilities.
While NDMA does not bioaccumulate, there are links between this semi-volatile organic chemical and tumors in several organs including the:
- Liver
- Lungs
- Pancreas
- Kidney
- Bladder
- Tongue
- Esophagus
Human exposure to NDMA is primarily from tobacco use, smoked meats (particularly bacon), fish, beer, and cheese. It is also an unintentional byproduct of the chlorination of waste and drinking waters.
NDMA has also been found in Valsartan.
VALSARTAN AND NDMA
Several large pharmaceutical companies have issued recalls for Valsartan products due to the presence of NDMA. While these recalls have largely occurred in 2018 and 2019, the presence of NDMA in Valsartan and potentially other ARBs has been known about for years.
The EPA lists symptoms of overexposure to NDMA as including:
- Headache
- Fever
- Nausea/vomiting
- Jaundice
- Abdominal cramps
- Dizziness
NDMA may also result in an enlarged liver and reduced function of the liver, kidneys and lungs. If you have taken an ARB and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is best to speak with your physician immediately in order to rule out or diagnose diseases linked to overexposure to NDMA.
VALSARTAN LAWYERS
If you have been diagnosed with cancer, liver failure, or any of the other consequences of NDMA in Valsartan, Lourie, Chance, Forlines, Carter & King may be able to help you recover damages for medical expenses, impacts to employment, home and lifestyle modifications, and personal pain and suffering.
Call 404-760-7400 to schedule your complimentary consultation today. Located in Atlanta, the attorneys at Lourie, Chance, Forlines, Carter & King serve victims of contaminated pharmaceuticals in Savannah, Decatur, Columbus, and all surrounding areas of Georgia.