In 2007, Novartis AG launched their popular leukemia drug, Tasigna, which belongs to the tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) family. Tasigna specifically targets the BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase enzyme, which spurs blood cancer cell growth in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia. Medical research, however, shows that Tasigna can also cause rapid-onset atherosclerosis — also known as coronary artery disease. As a result, countless individuals reported severe cardiovascular symptoms, including heart attacks, strokes, and sudden death. Patients who say they weren’t warned about Tasigna’s cardiovascular side effects are now filing lawsuits. Get a closer look at Novartis’ recent legal battles with patients and the previous Tasigna settlement payout from 2015 below.

Wrongful Death Lawsuit Demands Tasigna Settlement Due to Negligence

To date, no individual lawsuits have yet reached a Tasigna settlement with Novartis AG. In 2016, a California family filed the first wrongful death Tasigna lawsuit on behalf of Dainis Lauris. In September 2013, Lauris’s doctors found a 100% blockage in his right femoral artery. Then, Lauris’ oncologist read a medical journal study linking Tasigna to accelerated atherosclerosis in leukemia patients. Lauris immediately stopped taking Tasigna and his oncologist started him on another TKI drug. Unfortunately, the damage to Lauris’ arteries had already progressed, and he died after having a massive stroke in March 2014.

The family’s lawsuit alleges Novartis knew about Tasigna’s cardiovascular side effects, but failed to adequately disclose them. The plaintiffs hold Novartis AG responsible for promoting Tasigna without issuing proper warnings or conducting sufficient premarket clinical safety trials. The Lauris family seeks a Tasigna settlement to cover damages, medical and incidental bills, funeral/burial expenses, interest, and legal fees.

2015 Novartis Lawsuit Resulted in $390 Million Tasigna Settlement

While the Lauris family filed the first wrongful death lawsuit, Novartis has already paid one significant Tasigna settlement. In 2015, the pharmaceutical company agreed to pay a $390 million settlement to the U.S. Department of Justice. This civil fraud lawsuit claimed Novartis paid kickbacks to specialty pharmacies in exchange for promoting two drugs, which included Tasigna.

In addition, plaintiffs accused Novartis of illegal marketing practices which included further kickbacks via paid patient referrals and drug rebates. The Justice Department’s website states, “Novartis incentivized and pressured the pharmacies to emphasize Exjade’s benefits to patients while understating the drug’s serious, potentially life-threatening side effects.” Novartis also allegedly offered pharmacies rebate contracts for recommending their drugs over any competitor’s medication.

While no individual claims have yet reached a Tasigna settlement, experts believe injured parties may still be entitled to compensation. Novartis failed to warn U.S. prescribers and patients about Tasigna’s association with atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular adverse events. As a result, countless individuals experienced debilitating and life-threatening side effects, including stroke, coronary artery disease, amputations, and even death.

See If You May Qualify for a Tasigna Settlement From the Drug’s Manufacturer

If you or a loved one suffered heart attacks, stroke or other cardiovascular events while taking Tasigna, we can help. Filing your claim is the only way to qualify for a Tasigna settlement due to your pain, suffering and injuries. To confirm your eligibility for a Tasigna settlement, click the button below now to start your free claim review. After submitting your information, an experienced attorney will contact you to discuss next steps for getting the justice you deserve.