Millions of Americans have taken valsartan to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions. However, in 2018, regulators discovered that certain valsartan products contained potentially cancer-causing contaminants. As a result, patients across Florida and the United States have filed lawsuits alleging that contaminated valsartan contributed to their cancer diagnoses.
If you or a loved one took recalled valsartan and later developed cancer, you may have legal options.
What Is Valsartan?
Valsartan is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It belongs to a class of drugs known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), which help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.
Because it has been widely prescribed for decades, millions of patients have taken valsartan to manage cardiovascular conditions. For many people, the drug was a routine part of their daily treatment plan before contamination concerns emerged.
Why Was Valsartan Recalled?
In July 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced recalls of certain valsartan products after testing revealed contamination with N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a probable human carcinogen. Additional testing later identified N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA), another potentially cancer-causing chemical, in some batches.
The contamination was linked to manufacturing changes at overseas facilities that produced the drug’s active ingredient. As regulators continued testing products, the recalls expanded to include numerous lots distributed by multiple manufacturers. Many patients had already taken the medication for months or years before learning about the contamination concerns.
Cancers Linked To Contaminated Valsartan
NDMA and NDEA have been associated with an increased risk of certain cancers. As a result, many valsartan lawsuits involve individuals who were diagnosed with cancer after taking contaminated versions of the medication.
Some of the cancers most commonly cited in valsartan litigation include:
- Liver cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Bladder cancer
If you took recalled valsartan and were later diagnosed with one of these cancers, your illness may be linked to the contamination.
Who May Be Eligible To File a Florida Valsartan Cancer Claim?
Valsartan lawsuits generally allege that manufacturers and distributors failed to adequately test their products, identify contamination risks, or warn consumers about potential dangers. These cases are typically brought under product liability law.
You may have a claim if:
- You took valsartan from a recalled lot or a contaminated manufacturer
- You used the medication for an extended period
- You were later diagnosed with a cancer linked to NDMA or NDEA exposure
Every case is different, and eligibility depends on the specific facts involved. Pharmacy records, prescription histories, and medical records often play an important role in determining whether a patient may qualify to pursue compensation.
How Are Valsartan Claims Proven?
Like other defective drug cases, valsartan claims require evidence connecting the contaminated medication to the patient’s injuries.
Common forms of evidence may include:
- Pharmacy and prescription records
- Medical records documenting diagnosis and treatment
- Recall information identifying affected products
- Expert testimony regarding contamination and cancer risk
Building a successful claim often requires showing both that the medication was contaminated and that the exposure contributed to the cancer diagnosis.
What Compensation May Be Available in a Valsartan Lawsuit?
Individuals who developed cancer after taking contaminated valsartan may be entitled to compensation through a product liability claim.
Economic damages may include:
- Medical expenses
- Cancer treatment costs
- Future medical care
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
Non-economic damages may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or impairment
If a loved one passed away after developing cancer allegedly linked to contaminated valsartan, surviving family members may also be able to pursue wrongful death damages under Florida law.
Contact Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers To Schedule a Free Consultation With a Jacksonville Product Liability Attorney
If you suspect your cancer diagnosis may be linked to contaminated valsartan in Florida, it is important to understand your legal rights. An attorney can review your medical records, prescription history, and other evidence to determine whether you may have a product liability claim.
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra personal injury law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and the surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167