Oxbryta Lawsuit in Los Angeles

Oxbryta Lawsuit in Los Angeles: Holding Big Pharma Accountable

Oxbryta was designed to help individuals with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) by improving hemoglobin levels and reducing complications from sickled red blood cells. However, in September 2024, the drug was voluntarily recalled in the U.S. and internationally after post-market studies revealed significant safety concerns.

Research linked Oxbryta to life-threatening complications, including an increased risk of vaso-occlusive crises (VOC), severe organ damage, and even death.

If you or a family member took Oxbryta and suffered severe side effects, you may have grounds to file an Oxbryta lawsuit against Pfizer Inc. At Rueb Stoller Daniel, we are ready to help clients in Los Angeles and nationwide pursue justice.

Contact us for a free case review today.

Understanding Oxbryta

Oxbryta, or Voxelotor, was introduced to treat sickle cell disease. Originally developed by Global Blood Therapeutics, it gained FDA approval in 2019. Pfizer bought Global Blood Therapeutics in 2022. Following reports of serious health risks and fatalities associated with the drug, Pfizer recalled Oxbryta on September 25, 2024.

Why Was Oxbryta Recalled?

Pfizer voluntarily recalled Oxbryta on September 25, 2024. Originally developed to treat anemia in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) patients, the drug was found to increase the risk of painful vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), organ damage, and even death. The new findings showed that the risks of taking Oxbryta outweighed its potential benefits.

The recall followed alarming study results. In the Hope Kids 2 trial, which involved 236 children, eight deaths occurred among those taking Oxbryta, compared to only two in the placebo group. Another study, RESOLVE, found similar issues in sickle cell patients with leg ulcers, reporting eight deaths among participants.

We’ve published a blog diving deeper into Oxbryta’s global recall. If you or a loved one was harmed by Oxbryta (Voxelotor), contact us to explore your legal options.

sickle cell anemia illustration of sickle red blood cells

Oxbryta and Sickle Cell Disease Treatment

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder that affects red blood cells, causing them to take on a sickle or crescent shape. These abnormally shaped cells are stiff and sticky, leading to blockages in blood vessels and reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.

Some of the major health risks associated with sickle cell disease include:

  • Increased risk of infections due to a weakened immune system.
  • Acute Chest Syndrome: A severe condition where sickled cells block blood flow to the lungs.
  • Stroke, as sickle cells can form clots and obstruct arteries.
  • Organ damage and potential failure caused by prolonged oxygen deprivation.
  • Vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs): Painful episodes resulting from blocked circulation.
  • Hemolytic anemia: When the body lacks enough functioning red blood cells, leading to fatigue and weakness.

Historically, SCD treatments have focused on managing symptoms rather than addressing the disease’s underlying cause. Oxbryta, developed by Global Blood Therapeutics (GBT), was introduced to target hemoglobin abnormalities.

Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. In sickle cell patients, a defective form of hemoglobin contributes to the sickling of red blood cells. Oxbryta was intended to enhance hemoglobin’s ability to bind to oxygen, theoretically preventing cell deformation, improving circulation, and reducing complications.

Oxbryta Side Effects and Serious Risks

Nausea, diarrhea, and headaches are among the most commonly reported side effects of Oxbryta. Additionally, some patients have experienced allergic reactions.

Due to reports of severe health complications, Oxbryta was recalled. Legal claims argue that Global Blood Therapeutics (GBT) and Pfizer failed to provide sufficient warnings to sickle cell patients about the drug’s risks.

Vaso-Occlusive Crises (VOC)

Some patients on Oxbryta have experienced an increased rate of vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), also known as sickle cell crises. These events occur when sickle-shaped red blood cells obstruct blood flow in small vessels, limiting oxygen delivery to tissues and organs. This can result in extreme pain and long-term damage.

Symptoms of vaso-occlusive crises often include pain in the abdomen, joints, bones, or lungs. These painful episodes can last for hours or even days. Repeated occurrences may lead to severe complications.

Sickle cell crises can lead to:

  • Acute chest syndrome
  • Stroke
  • Organ failure, including kidney failure
  • Pulmonary embolism

Critical Health Risks and Fatalities

Oxbryta has been linked to severe complications and, in some cases, death. Post-marketing clinical studies trials found a higher mortality rate among patients taking Oxbryta than those in the placebo group.

Patients using Oxbryta may face an increased risk of:

  • Organ damage, including kidney and liver failure
  • Heart attack and stroke

Anyone who has experienced complications from Oxbryta should carefully document their medical history and symptoms.

Who Can File an Oxbryta Lawsuit in Los Angeles?

If you or a loved one have experienced severe health complications after using Oxbryta, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. At Rueb Stoller Daniel, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered harm due to dangerous or defective drugs. To be eligible for an Oxbryta lawsuit, individuals must meet the following criteria:

  • Usage Requirements: You must have taken Oxbryta for at least 30 days.
  • Complications After Oxbryta Use:
    • Increased Vaso-Occlusive Crises (VOC)
    • Stroke
    • Heart Attack
    • Organ Failure (e.g., kidney or liver failure)
    • Death

If you experienced complications or lost a family member, our team can help you pursue justice and compensation. Contact Rueb Stoller Daniel today for a free case evaluation and to discuss your legal options.

Who qualifies for an Oxbryta lawsuit in Los Angeles?

Oxbryta Lawsuit Compensation: What You Need to Know

If you or someone you love has suffered from serious side effects caused by Oxbryta, you may be eligible for financial compensation. At Rueb Stoller Daniel, we fight to ensure our clients receive the justice and support they deserve.

Medical Expenses

Medical bills can add up quickly after experiencing adverse effects from Oxbryta. A lawsuit can help recover costs for:

  • Emergency care for severe reactions like heart attacks or strokes.
  • Hospital stays due to complications such as organ failure.
  • Ongoing treatments like dialysis or rehabilitation.
  • Prescription drugs to manage new health conditions.
  • Future medical expenses for chronic issues or permanent disability.

Compensation for Lost Income

If your health condition prevents you from working, you may qualify for compensation covering:

  • Lost wages during treatment and recovery.
  • Future earnings lost due to long-term disability.

Pain and Suffering

Beyond financial losses, you can seek damages for:

  • Physical pain from increased VOCs or other complications.
  • Emotional struggles like anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
  • Loss of life enjoyment due to the inability to participate in hobbies or daily activities.

Other Costs

In addition to medical and wage-related damages, you may be compensated for:

  • Travel expenses for medical visits.
  • Home modifications to accommodate disabilities.
  • Caregiving costs for at-home support.

Wrongful Death Compensation for Families

In cases where Oxbryta led to a wrongful death, families may seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and loss of companionship.

Punitive Damages

In cases of severe negligence, courts may award punitive damages to victims. The purpose is to punish the at-fault party.

If you’re considering legal action, Rueb Stoller Daniel is here to guide you. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Los Angeles Oxbryta lawyer

How to File an Oxbryta Lawsuit in Los Angeles, CA

If you’ve experienced serious health issues or lost a loved one due to Oxbryta, you may have the right to compensation. Dealing with a lawsuit can feel overwhelming, but the legal team at Rueb Stoller Daniel is here to make the process easier for Los Angeles residents.

Gathering the Right Evidence

You need solid evidence to support an Oxbryta lawsuit. Our attorneys will work with you to collect:

  • Medical Documentation – Your health records and proof of Oxbryta use.
  • Communications with Doctors and Pharmacies – Any information about the risks of the drug.
  • Side Effect Reports – Records of complaints to the FDA or healthcare providers.
  • Expert Testimony – Medical professionals who can confirm the dangers of Oxbryta.

Time is critical—contact us as soon as possible to protect your claim.

Settlements vs. Court Cases

Most unsafe drug cases are resolved through settlements, but we’re prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. Rueb Stoller Daniel’s legal team will fight to get you the best outcome.

How Much Does a Los Angeles Oxbryta Attorney Cost?

Rueb Stoller Daniel operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs for your case. Our Oxbryta lawyers only receive payment if we win your case, taking a percentage of the final settlement or court award.

What Is the Time Limit for Oxbryta Lawsuits in California?

California law sets a deadline for lawsuits involving dangerous or defective products, including medications like Oxbryta. You may lose the right to claim compensation if you don’t file your Oxbryta lawsuit within this time limit.

Under California Code of Civil Procedure 335.1, product liability cases generally must be filed within two years of the date of the injury. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

The discovery rule applies to Oxbryta cases where patients don’t learn about health problems immediately. This means the two-year clock starts ticking when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered your injury.

It’s important to contact a Los Angeles Oxbryta lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Why Choose Rueb Stoller Daniel?

At Rueb Stoller Daniel, we’re here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the maximum compensation. We give your case personalized attention, treating you like a person, not just a file number.

  • Experience: Gregory Rueb, Paul Stoller, and Stephen Daniel have over fifty years of combined experience. Our team has represented tens of thousands of clients across the country.
  • Results: We have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for clients.
  • Reputation: Our law firm has earned a variety of awards and memberships.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

At Rueb Stoller Daniel, we understand the challenges patients with sickle cell disease face and the risks associated with Oxbryta. If you or a loved one has suffered due to Oxbryta, don’t wait to take action. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

You can reach us by calling 1-866-CALL-RSD or filling out our online form. We are available 24/7.