Baycol

Baycol (cerivastatin sodium) is a cholesterol-lowering drug that was approved in the United States in 1997. Baycol is a member of a class of drugs known as statins. Baycol lowers cholesterol levels by blocking a specific enzyme in the body that is part of the development of cholesterol. Studies of Baycol show that the drug was effective in reducing total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, and increasing HDL cholesterol. Baycol is used worldwide, with approximately 700,000 users in the United States.

In late 1999, Bayer lowered the prescribed dosage for Baycol and issued additional warnings with regard to muscle aches and kidney problems. In August 2001, however, Bayer voluntarily pulled Baycol from the market after reports of rhabdomylosis. Rhabdomylosis is a severe muscle reaction and can result in severe kidney damage and death.

In September 2002, Bayer began entering into settlements with injured Baycol users. Bayer and GlaxoSmithKline are also currently facing lawsuits from thousands of people who took Baycol or have relatives who died after taking the drug.

The following medications, when taken with Baycol, can cause adverse side effects: Gemfibrozil, HMG-CoA Inhibitors, Erythromycin, Azole Anti-Fungals, immunosuppressive drugs, and nicotinic acid. If you have taken any of these in conjunction with Baycol, alert your physician.

Symptoms of Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis usually causes muscle pain, which is often severe. The pain often occurs in the lower back and calves, but can also appear in the thigh and the upper extremities. Pain in the joints is also common. Some patients experience dark urine, general muscle tenderness and weakness, nausea, vomiting, fever, fatigue, and persistent headache. Symptoms can appear almost immediately upon exposure to Baycol, or can take more time to develop. This depends on the level of the dosage and the age and general health of the patient. In severe cases, high levels of protein are released into the bloodstream, caused by the break down of muscle cells. This can be toxic, resulting in the destruction of the kidneys and other organs.

Studies show all statins have been linked to rhabdomyolysis, however, only Baycol use has resulted in fatalities. Baycol has been found to be responsible for 31 deaths. Not all patients who have taken Baycol develop rhabdomyolysis, and it is fatal only in a small number. However, it is wise to consult with your doctor if you feel you are suffering from any of the above symptoms.

Conclusion

If you have taken Baycol and have developed severe lower back or calf pain, pain in your extremities and joints, nausea, vomiting, tenderness and weakness, a fever, dark urine, headaches, or fatigue, contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will run tests to check for possible damage to your kidneys and liver.

As of August 2003, Bayer settled 1,342 Baycol lawsuits out of court, resulting in $477 million. There are still over 11,000 Baycol lawsuits that Bayer must still face.

Cellino & Barnes represents individual clients who have suffered significantly as a result of taking Baycol. If you or a loved one believe you have sustained an injury as a result of taking Baycol, you may have a valid claim for those injuries. Call Cellino & Barnes now at 1-800-621-2020 or contact us.

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