Chemotherapy drugs have become more and more effective in recent years, and many patients with a form of cancer called chronic myelogenous leukemia are now treated with a drug called Tasigna® (nilotinib), which was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2007. The drug works by slowing or even stopping the growth of abnormal cells, but research indicates that the drug may be linked to a cardiovascular health condition called atherosclerosis, which involves a narrowing of veins and arteries.

People who experience this side effect are at risk for a variety of serious and potentially fatal health complications, such as:

  • Heart attacks – Heart attacks occur when there’s a blockage in a coronary artery. Atherosclerosis causes arteries to narrow, making it easier for blockages to occur due to plaque, cholesterol, and clots.
  • Strokes – Atherosclerosis can also cause blockages in arteries that carry blood to the brain. When those arteries are blocked, the brain receives less blood and oxygen than it requires, causing severe and permanent damage in the form of a stroke.

Although Tasigna® has been on the market for more than a decade, the FDA hasn’t released any warnings to patients or doctors concerning the drug’s cardiovascular risks.

At Ferrer Poirot Feller Daniel, it’s our job to stand up for the rights of innocent victims who were injured by dangerous medications such as Tasigna. If you or someone you love was hurt by this drug, get in touch with our drug injury lawyers today for a free consultation.