Investigatory studies have already proven the ability of propoxyphene to disturb to the heart’s normal electrical rhythm. These research studies were accomplished after consumer groups such as Public Citizen have pleaded for the drug’s immediate ban, and after the Food and Drug Administration called for its withdrawal. Propoxyphene, most popularly known as Darvon or Darvocet, is a medication classified as an analgesic and narcotic. The low efficiency rate and high probability to cause addiction and tolerance, along with its potential to cause serious heart problems, have definitely shocked the people. After all, propoxyphene is quite a prescription favorite among doctors, and has been the one of the top painkillers prescribed for a number of years.
We may consider the case of Kristine Esposito, from Queens, New York. The 31-year-old woman has already filed a lawsuit against Xanodyne Pharmaceuticals, accusing that the drug nearly gave a fatal blow to her heart. Because of this drug-induced accident, she had to be on lifetime medications with frequent medical evaluation. Her lawyers have all claimed that a physiologic phenomenon called as ‘QT prolongation’, which is observable on a cardiac monitor, is a signature injury caused by propoxyphene. Studies have readily supported this, confirming that this risky change in the heart rhythm can lead to cardiac depression, stroke or sudden death. This is a prime example that illustrates the legal concept of ‘general causation’, one that lawyers can use against Darvon manufacturers.
Nonetheless, even if studies do conclude the existence of the strong link between Darvon and erratic heart rhythms, lawyers may find it challenging to prove the concept on ‘specific causation’. This is essentially a key determinant in any personal injury case. What if patients have preexisting cardiac ailments? What if the complications result from the diseases, and are not drug-induced in any way? Xanodyne will surely point this out.
Despite all these issues, it does not mean that you have zero chances in winning the case You need to be up-to-date about the Darvon recall, and file a Darvon lawsuit with the help of a good lawyer.