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(EMAILWIRE.COM, May 22, 2009 ) Orlando, FL - The attorneys at Morgan & Morgan are warning consumers that the psoriasis drug Raptiva has been linked to serious and potentially fatal health problems, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.
Raptiva (efalizumab) is a drug that was introduced in 2003 to treat psoriasis. Psoriasis, which is characterized by red scaly patches on the skin, is an autoimmune disease which affects the skin and joints. Raptiva is an injection that is given once a week to treat moderate to severe psoriasis in adults by suppressing T-cells (blood cells that help help fight infection) in the immune system. However, by suppressing the immune system, Raptiva puts patients at an increased risk for serious infection. In October 2008, Raptiva received the Food and Drug Administration’s strongest warning (a “black box” warning) due to the risk of life threatening infections associated with its use.
Health problems that have been linked to the use of Raptiva include:
• Viral Meningitis
• Bacterial Sepsis
• Encephalopathy
• Lymphoma
• Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML)
In February 2009, the FDA issued a public health advisory statement that identified Raptiva as a risk factor for the development of a severe and fatal condition known as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The FDA has received reports of 3 confirmed and 1 possible case of PML in patients using Raptiva. All four of these patients were treated with Raptiva for over three years, and three of the four have died.
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy is a rare brain infection caused by a virus that affects the central nervous system. It often occurs in people with weakened immune systems and can result in irreversible neurologic damage and death. Symptoms of PML include loss of coordination, progressive weakness, paralysis, vision loss, fatigue, memory loss, difficulty with speech, and disorientation.
If you or a loved one has taken Raptiva and been diagnosed with Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy or any other type of serious infection, you may be entitled to compensation. Visit http://www.forthepeople.com/raptiva_lawyers.htm to learn more about the health risks associated with Raptiva and the rights of patients who have been injured by this drug. Fill out the Free Case Evaluation form to find out if you are eligible to participate in a Raptiva lawsuit. Morgan & MorganÂ’s Raptiva lawyers are experienced in litigating dangerous and defective drug cases and have the resources and knowledge to pursue justice on your behalf.
About Morgan & Morgan
Morgan & Morgan is one of the largest Personal Injury law firms in the country with offices nationwide. The firm handles product liability cases, personal injury cases, and medical malpractice cases, as well as claims against drug and medical device manufacturers. Visit http://www.forthepeople.com for a free case evaluation and information about your legal rights.
Morgan & Morgan
Scott Weinstein
877-MORGAN-LAW
pressrelease@lawyercentral.com 
Source: EmailWire.com
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