Tepezza is a prescription medication that received FDA approval in 2020 for treating a specific eye condition called thyroid eye disease (TED). TED is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and enlargement of the tissues around the eyes.
While Tepezza has been hailed as a breakthrough treatment for TED, recent lawsuits have raised concerns about its safety. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into Tepezza’s effectiveness, potential side effects, and the ongoing legal issues.
What is Tepezza and How Does it Work?
Tepezza, also known by its generic name teprotumumab-trbw, is a medication designed to target a specific protein involved in the inflammatory process of TED. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues around the eyes, leading to swelling, bulging eyes, and vision problems.
Drugs.com highlights that Tepezza works by blocking this protein, thereby reducing inflammation and improving symptoms. It’s administered through intravenous infusions typically given once every three weeks for a total of eight doses.
Side Effects and Safety Concerns of Tepezza
While Tepezza is effective in treating TED, it can cause side effects. MedicalNewsToday notes that some common side effects include fatigue, muscle aches, injection site reactions, nausea, and diarrhea.
In certain situations, more severe side effects such as eye issues, skin rashes, and allergic responses may develop. Before beginning Tepezza therapy, talk to your doctor about any potential side effects.
The intensity of these side effects might vary significantly. Patients may experience them differently depending on individual factors.
Allegations of Hearing Loss
The Lawsuit Information Center highlights that despite its approval for TED, Tepezza has been linked to hearing loss in some patients. Several lawsuits have been filed against Tepezza’s manufacturer, Horizon Therapeutics, alleging the company failed to adequately warn patients about this potential side effect.
TorHoerman Law notes that plaintiffs in these lawsuits claim that the pharmaceutical company did not conduct sufficient studies to fully understand Tepezza’s risks. As a result, patients who experience hearing loss after taking the medication are seeking compensation for their injuries and damages.
The Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit claims that the medicine’s side effects can occur during or after Tepezza treatment and may be permanent. While the exact cause of this side effect remains under investigation, these lawsuits have raised concerns about Tepezza’s safety profile.
Considering Tepezza? Discussing Risks with Your Doctor
If you’re considering Tepezza for TED, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive discussion with your doctor about the potential benefits and risks. Be sure to ask about the medication’s effectiveness in your specific case, potential side effects, and monitoring strategies during treatment.
If you have any concerns regarding hearing loss, discuss them with your doctor. They can address your concerns and, if required, provide other treatment alternatives.
Ongoing Research and Legal Developments
Tepezza’s long-term safety profile and the lawsuits regarding hearing loss are still under investigation. Ongoing research is crucial to determine the full range of Tepezza’s side effects and identify potential ways to mitigate them.
Lawsuit Legal News reports that in November 2023, Judge Durkin ruled that Horizon Therapeutics could be held legally liable. These legal developments surrounding the Tepezza lawsuits will likely influence future prescribing practices and may lead to stricter warnings about potential side effects.
FAQs
What is the risk of Tepezza?
Tepezza, while effective for thyroid eye disease, carries risks including common side effects like fatigue, muscle aches, and nausea. Legal actions have been brought against the company due to the more severe risk of possible hearing loss. Before beginning any therapy, patients should talk about these risks with their healthcare professional.
Is Tepezza’s hearing loss permanent?
The hearing loss caused by Tepezza can be temporary or permanent, depending on the individual case. Some patients have reported partial or complete recovery, while others have experienced lasting damage. It’s essential to monitor hearing and report any changes to a healthcare provider immediately.
Do you have to take Tepezza forever?
No, Tepezza is not typically taken indefinitely. The standard treatment course involves a series of infusions over several months. Once the treatment course is completed, the necessity for further doses depends on the patient’s response and the advice of their healthcare provider.
Tepezza offers a promising treatment for thyroid eye disease, but concerns linger regarding its safety. While approved by the FDA, the drug has been linked to hearing loss in some users, leading to lawsuits against the manufacturer.
The legal outcome and ongoing research will determine Tepezza’s place in TED treatment. For patients considering Tepezza, a thorough discussion with their doctor about the benefits and risks is crucial before starting treatment.