Simvastatin and Amiodarone

Simvastatin and amiodarone lawyers who are on your side

The anti-cholesterol drug combination of simvastatin and amiodarone is linked to serious, life-threatening side effects. While the drugs were supposed to reduce cholesterol, they increased health risks.

If you or a loved one experienced any adverse side effects related to simvastatin and amiodarone, it would be wise to arrange a legal consultation with an attorney. You may be entitled to compensation. Contact a personal injury attorney in Tulsa at Hansen Dirani & Associates to learn about your rights. We can put experience and resources to work for you.

What are simvastatin and amiodarone?

Simvastatin, a member of the statin class of anti-cholesterol drugs, works by blocking critical enzymes. It is a component in popular drugs such as Merck’s Zocor, Schering-Pkough’s Vytorin and Abbott Laboratories’ Simcor.

Amiodarone is used to reduce heart irregularities. It is marketed as Pacerone by Upsher-Smith Laboratories and Cordarone by Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories. Amiodarone works by lengthening a portion of the heart’s electrical activity.

Side effects of simvastatin and amiodarone

Simvastatin has few side effects, but amiodarone has several. When the drugs are combined, they put users at a greater risk of the muscle disease rhabdomyolysis, which is characterized by atrophying skeletal muscle tissue.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), from November 1997 to October 2002, 4,520 people died as a result of taking amiodarone. Amiodarone is routinely prescribed for common heart conditions, including atrial fibrillation.

The FDA has only allowed use of amiodarone for ventricular arrhythmias, which are more serious heart disorders. The FDA, aware of the severe side effects, told doctors to be careful when prescribing amiodarone.

A class action lawsuit that claims more than 1,000 deaths were related to amiodarone was filed.

The following are serious side effects linked to simvastatin and/or amiodarone:

• Rhabdomyolysis
• Kidney failure
• Lung damage
• Liver damage
• Heartbeat irregularities
• Muscle cramps and aches
• Joint pain
• Memory loss
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Allergic reaction
• Breast development in boys (gynecomastia)
• Pancreatitis
• Hepatitis
• Worsening of cataracts
• Itchy skin
• Unexplained rash
• Eczema
• Impotence (also known as erectile dysfunction or ED)
• Increased liver enzymes
• Spinning sensation (vertigo)

Contact Hansen Dirani & Associates

If you are coping with side effects of Simvastatin and Amiodarone, take action immediately. A dangerous drug injury can create a significant hardship, but you can have a strong legal advocate to help through a difficult time. Contact an experienced attorney in Tulsa. For a free consultation, contact Hansen Dirani & Associates. We are ready to listen to you and discuss your legal options.