An antibiotic known as Ketek, that is part of the ketolide drug class, has recently been linked to liver damage among patients. The drug, which is marketed in America has been under investigation for the dangerous side effects, however, a drug similar to Ketek known as cethromycin is going to be marketed in Asia even though the drug risks are still known.
Ketek is part of the class of drugs known as ketolide belonging to the macrolide group. The ketolide antibiotics are a new group of drugs that are used to treat respiratory infections. Ketek is currently the only known ketolide available on the market and because of severe issues with toxicity the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have issued increased regulations for the drug.
The drug, which is manufactured by Advanced Life Sciences and marketed Wyeth, is continuing to be produced even though the drug could potentially contain side effects similar to Ketek.
Ketek (telithromycin), which was made available for market in April 2004, is manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis and is used to treat the following conditions, according to the FDA:
* community-acquired pneumonia
* multi-drug resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae
* acute bacterial sinusitis
* acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis
What Are The Ketek Risks?
In early 2006, an issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine reported the link between Ketek and the development of life-threatening liver toxicity among patients. A warning has been issued by the FDA on the dangers of Ketek, which is under investigation. It is important for patients to look for the following risks:
* yellowing of skin/eyes
* vision loss/blurry vision
* fainting
* abdominal cramps
In addition to developing liver damage or liver toxicity, patients are also at risk for developing pseudomembrane colitis, which is an intestine infection, as well as hosting a lengthy list of side effects such as:
* watery diarrhea
* continued diarrhea
* blood stool
* stomach cramps
* nausea
* headache
* dizziness
* vomiting
* loose stools
* skin rash
* fatigue
* pain, upper abdominal and abdominal
* dry mouth
* insomnia
* vertigo
Unfortunately the list of side effects continues, and all were found during Phase III clinical trials of the drug in which 4,780 patients were tested for the drug’s side effects and treatment effectiveness.
Overcoming the Ketek Risks
While the FDA continues to investigate the approximately 12 cases of acute liver failure, four fatalities and 20 cases of liver damage among patients, the drug remains on the market. Patients continue to be exposed to the potential Ketek risks of developing liver failure and liver toxicity.
Patients consuming Ketek are encouraged to contact their general physician to discuss the potential Ketek side effects. Additionally, if a patient has suffered from the Ketek dangers they are advised to consult a legal professional, particularly an experienced pharmaceutical attorney who can provide a legal consultation as to the potential need for creating a Ketek class action. Because liver damage can gravely effect an individual’s life it is important that the appropriate justice is sought and, this may result in monetary compensation for a Ketek victim.
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