The manufacturer of Ketek failed to properly warn of the increased risk of liver failure or death as a side effect of the antibiotic. The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk are no longer investigating Antibiotic Ketek Side Effects Lawsuits. The information on this page is provided for information purposes only.

Ketek (telithromycin) is an antibiotic which has been prescribed for treatment of respiratory tract infections, sinusitis, pneumonia and bronchitis . Ketek side effects have been linked to liver failure, which could be potentially fatal for some users.

Following the use of the Ketek, liver failure has been reported at a significantly higher rate than what has been associated with other similar antibiotics.  The occurrence has been found in otherwise healthy individuals, and could require a liver transplant or ultimately lead to premature death.

The Ketek lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are no longer reviewing potential lawsuits for individuals who have suffered liver failure, liver damage, respiratory failure or death.

KETEK LIVER FAILURE

The a ntibiotic Ketek was approved by the FDA in 2004. However, there has been a lot of controversy surrounding the approval after it was discovered that fraud and under reporting of adverse events occurred during the clinical trials.  The manufacturers were aware of the risk of liver damage at the time it was introduced in the United States, yet they failed to adequately warn of the Ketek side effects.

Symptoms of liver problems may include fatigue, malaise, anorexia, jaundice or nausea. If any of these symptoms appear after use of the antibiotic Ketek, a medical consultation for a liver function test should be obtained immediately.

KETEK LAWSUITS FOR FAILURE TO WARN

Although the manufacturers began selling Ketek in 2004, it was not until June 2006 that a bold warning was added indicating the associated risk of liver failure.  Many experts have indicated that even this warning is insufficient to protect consumers, and there have been recommendations that Ketek be removed from the market.

>>NEWS 2/14/2007: Ketek liver damage risks lead to restrictions on use

During 2005, over 3.35 million prescriptions were issued in the United States with inadequate warnings of the Ketek side effects.  The manufacturers generated over $200 million dollars in sales at the expense of the safety of their customers.

Claims are being pursued against the manufacturer for users who meet one of the following criteria:

  1. Received medical treatment for liver problems, including jaundice or yellowing of the eyes and skin
  2. Diagnosed with abnormal liver function
  3. Suffered liver failure
  4. Serious aggravation of myasthenia gravis (potentially fatal muscle weakness)
  5. Death related to liver function

New cases are no longer being accepted by Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. This page is maintained for informational purposes only.