Kidney Dangers Associated With PPIs
Although some PPIs have been available for over ten years, recent studies suggest the drugs cause serious damage to the kidneys. In February 2016, a study published in the Journal Of The American Medical Association (JAMA) found PPIs increased a patient’s risk of developing chronic kidney disease and kidney failure.
Another study published in April 2016 in the Journal Of The American Society Of Nephology concluded patients who take PPIs had a 28% increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease. Additionally, the study also determined patients who take PPIs had a 96% increased chance of developing end-stage kidney failure within five years of starting to use PPIs.
PPIs have been shown to cause a variety of kidney injuries including:
- Chronic kidney disease
- Acute interstitial nephritis (also known as Bright’s Disease)
- Acute kidney injury
- Kidney failure (renal failure)
- Dialysis
- Kidney removal
- Kidney transplant
- Kidney related death
- Clostridium difficile (C. diff)
What Is Chronic Kidney Disease?
Chronic kidney disease is one of the most common and serious conditions caused by PPIs. Chronic kidney disease is the gradual loss of kidney function over time. When the kidneys lose function, they are unable to remove waste, so the waste builds up in the bloodstream. When waste begins to build up in the bloodstream, patients can suffer from conditions like anemia, weak bones, and nerve damage, among others.
Chronic kidney disease can also lead to complete kidney failure, which will require a kidney transplant. Unfortunately, candidates for kidney transplants often have to wait months or years for a new kidney; and, while they wait they have to undergo dialysis treatment regularly to avoid life-threatening complications. Chronic kidney disease is dangerous for patients because the symptoms present themselves gradually and can appear to be very generic, making diagnosis difficult. By the time a patient experiences symptoms and receives a correct diagnosis, he or she could have already suffered permanent damage.
The Manufacturers’ Failure To Warn
Drug manufacturers have a responsibility to warn patients of all risks associated with their drugs. Unfortunately, the manufacturers of PPIs like Nexium, Prilosec, and Prevacid failed to warn patients of the risks of kidney injuries. For patients who have suffered a kidney injury after taking a PPI, holding the manufacturers responsible may feel like an overwhelming and impossible task. However, with the help of an experienced pharmaceutical attorney, you may be able to obtain compensation for your injuries.
National PPI Injury Lawyers
With over 50 years of combined experience, the PPI lawyers at Blizzard Law PLLC are uniquely qualified to help patients who have suffered kidney injuries from PPIs. If you or someone you love obtained a kidney injury after taking heartburn medication, call Blizzard Law PLLC today for a free consultation.
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