Truvada is an antiviral medication that is used to treat and prevent HIV/AIDS. It is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences Inc. who initially called the drug Viread. Truvada has been linked to bone loss, kidney problems, tooth decay, and other health problems because of an ingredient called tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF). As a result, a number of lawsuits have been filed again Gilead. If you or a loved one has suffered harm that could be linked to Truvada, you should reach out to a class-action lawyer for advice.
It is alleged that Gilead knew from as early as 2011 that TDF was highly toxic in large doses and potentially fatal. The company is also accused of deliberately delaying the development of a safer version of TDF known as tenofovir alafenamide or TAF in an effort to maximize profits. TAF is less toxic and highly effective at lower doses. However, Gilead allegedly withheld this medication and continued to use TDF because it was the main HIV drug on the market and it could command high prices.
In May 2018, a class-action lawsuit was filed in California for people who took Truvada and other HIV medications containing TDF. The first trial in multidistrict litigation is scheduled for June 2022. In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the risks associated with this medication and outline the types of compensation to which you may be entitled.
Health Challenges Associated with Truvada
It has been said that Truvada can result in severe side effects. One of them is decreased bone density after just a few weeks of use. When you lose bone density, you’re at an increased risk of osteoporosis, osteopenia, and broken bones. Signs of bone issues include joint pain and back pain.
Another potential problem is kidney damage and renal failure since Truvada is intended to be taken in high doses for an extended period. The kidneys help to eliminate waste from the body. The amount of stress that the drug would put on the body is believed to have led to kidney damage and kidney failure in some people. When your kidneys aren’t functioning normally, you can be at risk for several other health issues.
TDF has also been linked to lactic acidosis which is a buildup of lactate in the bloodstream. When the kidneys are compromised, they aren’t able to efficiently remove lactate. This can lead to breathing difficulties, nausea, vomiting, weakness, and fatigue.
Other side effects that have been connected to Truvada include:
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Strange dreams
- Sinusitis
- Respiratory infections
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Hyperpigmentation
- Rash and itching
Compensation You May Be Able to Recover
By seeking legal representation, you may be able to claim a range of economic and non-economic damages. These include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost income and loss of future earnings
- Expenses associated with disability accommodations
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Funeral expenses and loss of support if your loved one died
The lawsuits pending against Gilead also seek punitive damages on behalf of the plaintiffs.
The amount each individual gets will depend on the extent of their losses. A person who suffered severe health problems that left them permanently disabled and unable to work will likely receive more than someone who recovered and was able to earn a living.
The statute of limitations varies from state to state but you typically have two to three years after you’ve suffered harm to file a dangerous drug claim. You’ll need to prove that your injuries were due to your use of Truvada so it’s important to gather some evidence. This will include medical records, pay stubs, receipts, and other documents that prove your losses. If you hire a lawyer, they will give you further advice about how you can support your claim.
Get Help from the Class Action Lawyers Coalition Today!
There are several benefits to joining a class-action lawsuit. Large companies such as drug manufacturers have access to vast resources that are out of the reach of the average victim. By joining a large group of people who have suffered similar harm, you’ll be able to pursue a claim that you wouldn’t be able to manage on your own.
The Class Action Lawyers Coalition is here to help. We’re accepting Truvada-related personal injury or wrongful death cases across the country. If you have been diagnosed with kidney damage, tooth decay, or osteoporosis that has been linked to your use of medication containing TDF, reach out to our attorneys as soon as possible. Your first consultation is free.
