What are Zocor and Vytorin?
Zocor (simvastatin) and Vytorin (simvastatin/ezetimibe) are part of a group of drugs called statins. Generally, statins are prescribed to lower cholesterol.
Zocor was approved by the FDA in 1991 and Vytorin was approved in 2004. Since being approved, both drugs have been widely prescribed and have generated billions of dollars in sales in the United States.
Who manufactures Zocor and Vytorin?
Zocor and Vytorin are manufactured and distributed by Merck-the same company that manufactured Vioxx, a painkiller pulled from the market in 2004 because of increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Merck maintains its U.S. headquarters in New Jersey.
What problems have been associated with Zocor and Vytorin?
Both drugs can substantially increase the risk of a serious muscle injury called rhabdomyolysis, a painful condition that can be fatal.
What is rhabdomyolysis?
Rhabdomyolysis (often called "rhabdo") is the rapid breakdown of skeletal muscle due to injury to muscle tissue. It occurs when a protein (myoglobin) is released as muscle fibers break down. Myoglobin can damage the kidneys, causing dark or red urine and fatigue. Rhabdomyolysis patients who experience acute renal failure (ARF) have a mortality rate as high as 20%.
What has the FDA done about the problem?
On March 19, 2010, the FDA notified healthcare professionals and patients of the increased risk or rhabdomyolysis. The FDA is currently reviewing data from clinical trials, observational studies, adverse event reports, and data on prescription use to understand the relationship between simvastatin use and muscle injury. Click here to read the entire FDA announcement.
Do I have a case?
Anyone diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis while taking Zocor® or Vytorin® may have a claim. Clark, Perdue & List has substantial experience with pharmaceutical injury claims. If you or someone you know has suffered serious side effects from the use of Zocor® or Vytorin®, call or e-mail the experienced pharmaceutical injury attorneys at Clark, Perdue & List today.
