70 patients sue Pfizer over arthritis drug risks

pharmafile | May 22, 2017 | News story | Sales and Marketing Pfizer, celebrex 

Pfizer has been hit with a £3.5 million lawsuit by 70 Scottish patients who claim that the use of its drug Celebrex, for the treatment of muscle pain and joint stiffness associated with arthritis, led them to experience heart problems and multiple strokes.

It has been ruled that the victims – all of whom are aged between 60 and 90 – are able to sue the drug maker on the basis of their claims. If the first two test cases are successful, which includes 73-year-old Ronald Richards who suffered a heart attack following the use of the drug and John Jarvie, 72, who suffered two strokes, the further 68 will see their own separate claims against Pfizer, with every victim seeking around £50,000 each in damages.

The victims each began taking Celebrex in 2002 at the earliest; the lawsuit alleges that Pfizer was aware of the risks caused by the drug since as early as 1999.  

“The decision of the Court of Session is a ruling on a procedural application and not a determination on the merits of the legal case. Pfizer believe this litigation has no merit and will defend the claims vigorously. Since its introduction in 1999, Celebrex has helped millions of eligible patients worldwide. It is approved for use in more than 100 countries.”

Matt Fellows

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