Hair loss is expected with most chemotherapy regimens. But Taxotere, a popular breast cancer drug, is linked to persistent, even permanent hair loss. A 2005 study found 9.2% of Taxotere patients reported lasting hair loss several years after treatment. But Sanofi-Aventis, the company that makes Taxotere, failed to warn patients about this possibility until December 2015.
Thousands are affected, yet some hesitate to file claims because they worry their hair loss isn’t serious enough to qualify. But as more evidence sheds light on Sanofi’s negligence, even seemingly minor hair loss may qualify for a cash settlement.
Isn’t Chemo Hair Loss Normal for Cancer Patients?
Chemo-induced alopecia is typical for most cancer patients. What makes Taxotere different is that hair loss-related symptoms during chemo become visible forever for nearly 1 in 10 patients. Everyone’s hair grows back at a different rate after chemo, and most see new regrowth soon after treatment ends. Fuzz appears on most patients’ scalps and bodies about two to three weeks after completing treatment. And one month post-chemo, your hair should start growing back at its normal rate. However, Taxotere can seriously delay any regrowth — or even prevent it entirely.
And hair loss doesn’t have to involve your scalp to qualify for Taxotere compensation. While this hair loss is the most common type among people filing Taxotere claims, others can be just as devastating. It’s important to consider how each type of loss affects cancer survivors. Especially since many doctors believe survivor care is just as important as the cancer treatment itself.
Eligible Hair Loss Types for Claiming a Taxotere Cash Settlement
For claim purposes, we define long-term or persistent hair loss as anything lasting six months or longer after treatment ends. If you experience any symptoms below for at least six months, then you may qualify for a Taxotere cash settlement:
1. Long-term hair loss anywhere on your body or affecting a specific area/part, including your scalp
Your scalp may be the most obvious area, but other parts can also make patients feel disfigured. Alopecia can affect one or more body parts, including armpits, arms, legs, face, chest or the genital region.
2. Thin or patchy hair regrowth that leaves “bald spots” anywhere on your body, not just your head
Persistent alopecia doesn’t always mean you’re left completely bald afterwards. Thin hair regrowth can be just as traumatizing as a bald scalp (or even more so, for some cancer survivors). Bald spots may be more upsetting or noticeable than other loss types, as some victims have noted. Don’t hesitate to file a claim if you experienced patchy regrowth or your hair grows back much thinner than usual.
3. Eyelashes or eyebrows that don’t grow back completely
Facial hair loss (including eyebrows and eyelashes) is common during chemotherapy. But lashes and brows usually reappear within a month or two after treatment ends. (Do note that they may return gradually, growing back a bit slower than your scalp hair.) Survivors with missing eyebrows, eyelashes or both may qualify for a Taxotere cash settlement.
How Taxotere Hair Loss Victims Can Get the Justice and Compensation They Deserve
If you or a loved one experienced lasting Taxotere hair loss, file a claim today. For 10 years, Sanofi warned cancer patients in every country except the U.S. about this side effect risk. As a result, thousands were denied their right to give informed consent when choosing their cancer treatment and experienced disfigurement.
To check your own eligibility for compensation, complete your free online Taxotere claim evaluation today. You’ll answer just three short questions and see your evaluation results instantly online. After submitting your information, an experienced lawyer will call to discuss how to get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Related: Taxotere May Soon Join Growing New Jersey MCL Litigation Trend
Mandy Voisin
Mandy Voisin is a freelance writer, blogger, and author of Girls of the Ocean and Star of Deliverance. As an accomplished content marketing consultant, mom of four and doctor's wife, Mandy has written hundreds of articles about dangerous drugs and medical devices, medical issues that impact disabled Americans, veterans' healthcare and workers' compensation issues since 2016.