Lemtrada Stroke and Arterial Dissection Lawsuits

In 2001, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a medication called alemtuzumab to help treat B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia, a type of cancer. In 2014, the same drug was approved by the FDA for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Sanofi Genzyme soon released a version of the drug for MS patients under the brand name Lemtrada. Since Lemtrada’s release, the FDA has identified at least 13 cases of strokes and arterial tears linked to its use.

At Ferrer Poirot Feller Daniel, our nationwide drug injury lawyers are here to fight for patients who suffered arterial dissection, stroke, or arterial tears as a result of receiving Lemtrada. If you or your loved one suffered either of these side effects during or after Lemtrada treatments, call (888) 485-8844 or contact us online 24/7 to get started now. We want to help.

FDA Issues Black Box Warning for Lemtrada

According to the FDA, Lemtrada may increase the risk of arterial dissection, which can lead to strokes and arterial tearing in the head and neck areas of patients with multiple sclerosis. These complications most often occur shortly after receiving the drug—usually within one day—and they can lead to permanent disability or even death.

On November 29, 2018, the FDA announced the addition of a black box warning to Lemtrada packaging to increase awareness of the risk of stroke or arterial dissection after starting treatment. The black box warning is the FDA’s strictest warning and is only issued when a serious health hazard is linked to the use of a medication.

Symptoms of Stroke and Artery Tears Linked to Lemtrada

A variety of symptoms may indicate arterial dissection, which can cause stroke and arterial tearing. Signs of serious Lemtrada complications include sudden:

  • Numbness or weakness in the face, arms, or legs—especially on one side of the body
  • Confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech
  • Vision problems
  • Problems with walking, dizziness, or balance
  • Severe headache or neck pain

These symptoms most often appear within 1-3 days of starting Lemtrada and require emergency treatment as soon as possible.

Lemtrada Attorneys Helping Patients Suffering From Arterial Dissection

When used to treat multiple sclerosis, Lemtrada has been known to have certain risks and side effects. However, the increased risks of stroke and arterial tearing were not identified when many patients started using the drug. At Ferrer Poirot Feller Daniel, our attorneys have more than 35 years of experience fighting for drug injury victims, and we’re not afraid to take on negligent pharmaceutical companies who put patients like you at risk.

If you or someone you love suffered a stroke or experienced arterial tearing after receiving Lemtrada, contact our lawyers now. We provide free case reviews, and we’re available 24/7 to help you get started. Dial (888) 485-8844 or contact us online now to speak with a member of our legal team.

Lemtrada® is a registered trademark of Sanofi Genzyme and is used here only to identify the product in question.

This law firm is not associated with, sponsored by, or affiliated with Sanofi Genzyme or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Do not stop taking a prescription medication without first consulting with your doctor. Discontinuing a prescribed medication without your doctor’s advice can result in injury or death. 

Cases may be referred to another attorney or law firm.