Oxbryta Lawsuit in San Diego

Oxbryta Lawsuit in San Diego: Fighting for Victims of Recalled Medication

Oxbryta was developed as a breakthrough Sickle Cell Disease medication. It was designed to treat anemia and reduce complications from sickled red blood cells by improving hemoglobin levels.

However, in September 2024, Pfizer voluntarily recalled the drug from U.S. and international markets following post-market research that revealed serious safety concerns. These studies showed that Oxbryta was associated with life-threatening complications, including an increased risk of vaso-occlusive crises (VOC), organ damage, and even death.

If you or a loved one suffered severe side effects, you may be eligible for an Oxbryta lawsuit in San Diego. Rueb Stoller Daniel is committed to holding pharmaceutical companies accountable for negligence. Contact our San Diego law offices today for a free case evaluation.

What Is Oxbryta?

Oxbryta, known by its generic name Voxelotor, was developed to treat sickle cell disease. It was created by Global Blood Therapeutics and received FDA approval in 2019.

In 2022, Pfizer acquired Global Blood Therapeutics. However, reports of severe side effects and fatal complications led Pfizer to voluntarily recall Oxbryta from the market on September 25, 2024.

Oxbryta Recall: Key Facts

On September 25, 2024, Pfizer pulled Oxbryta from the market after discovering that the drug posed serious health risks. Initially developed to treat anemia in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) patients, it was later found to increase the risk of painful vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), organ damage, and even death.

With these alarming findings, Pfizer decided to remove Oxbryta from all worldwide markets. Our blog explores the global Oxbryta recall and what it means for patients in detail.

If you have been affected by this recalled drug, reach out to us to discuss your legal options.

Sickle cell disease blood test

Oxbryta’s Intended Impact on Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary disorder that affects red blood cells, causing them to become rigid and sickle-shaped instead of round and flexible. These deformed cells can clog blood vessels, restricting oxygen delivery and leading to severe complications.

Sickle cell disease is associated with several serious health risks, including:

  • Frequent infections due to a weakened immune response.
  • Acute Chest Syndrome: a potentially fatal condition where sickled cells block oxygen flow to the lungs.
  • Stroke: Sickle cells can create dangerous clots.
  • Organ failure: Prolonged oxygen deprivation damages organs.
  • Vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs): Episodes of severe pain due to blocked blood flow.
  • Hemolytic anemia: The body struggles to maintain enough healthy red blood cells, leading to fatigue and weakness.

Traditional treatments for SCD have primarily focused on symptom relief through blood transfusions and pain management. Oxbryta, developed by Global Blood Therapeutics (GBT), was introduced to combat faulty hemoglobin.

Hemoglobin is the protein responsible for transporting oxygen in red blood cells. In sickle cell disease patients, defective hemoglobin leads to deformed red blood cells. Oxbryta was designed to improve blood flow and prevent complications by improving hemoglobin’s ability to bind oxygen.

Health Risks of Oxbryta

The most common side effects of Oxbryta include nausea, diarrhea, and headaches. Some patients also experienced severe allergic reactions.

Severe complications were reported with Oxbryta (Voxelotor). Post-marketing trials revealed alarming side effects, prompting a global recall of Oxbryta in September 2024. The drug has been linked to increased risks of vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), organ damage, and even death.

Vaso-Occlusive Crises (VOCs)

Sickle cell patients taking Oxbryta reported more frequent and severe vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs). Also called sickle cell crises, VOCs occur when abnormally shaped red blood cells obstruct blood flow in small vessels, causing severe pain and reducing oxygen delivery to tissues and organs.

Common symptoms of a vaso-occlusive crisis include intense pain, swelling in the hands or feet, fever, and symptoms of severe dehydration. The pain from vaso-occlusive episodes often lasts for hours or days, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life.

Vaso-occlusive crises can also cause life-threatening complications such as acute chest syndrome, stroke, and organ failure.

Organ Damage, Stroke, and Heart Attack

Oxbryta has been implicated in causing serious organ damage, including kidney and liver failure. Clinical data revealed that some patients experienced a higher incidence of these complications while on the drug. Additionally, cardiovascular risks like heart attacks and strokes were reported among patients taking Oxbryta.

Increased Risk of Death

Oxbryta has been linked to fatal complications. Post-marketing studies found that patients taking Oxbryta had a higher risk of death compared to those receiving a placebo.

Among 236 children with sickle cell disease in the HOPE Kids 2 trial, eight deaths were reported among participants taking Oxbryta versus two in the placebo group. The RESOLVE study of sickle cell patients with leg ulcers reported eight deaths among participants.

Who Can File an Oxbryta Lawsuit in San Diego?

If you or a loved one have experienced severe health complications after using Oxbryta, you may qualify for litigation. At Rueb Stoller Daniel, we are dedicated to helping victims of dangerous or defective drugs. To be eligible for an Oxbryta lawsuit in San Diego, 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 San Diego?

Compensation in an Oxbryta Lawsuit

If you or a loved one suffered harm due to Oxbryta, you may be entitled to financial compensation. A lawsuit can help recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs associated with the drug’s adverse effects. At Rueb Stoller Daniel, we are dedicated to securing the highest possible compensation for our clients.

Medical Costs

Medical care for Oxbryta complications can be costly, and victims may recover expenses for:

  • Emergency Treatment – Sudden and severe reactions like strokes or heart attacks often require urgent, expensive care.
  • Hospitalization – Extended stays due to organ failure or other health complications can result in overwhelming medical bills.
  • Ongoing Treatments – Long-term care, such as dialysis for kidney failure or rehabilitation for stroke recovery, may be necessary.
  • Prescription Costs – Additional medications may be needed to manage new conditions caused by Oxbryta.
  • Future Healthcare Needs – If chronic conditions develop, compensation can include projected medical costs for ongoing treatment.

Lost Wages

Serious health problems can impact your ability to earn a living.

  • Lost Wages: You can recover lost income if you missed work while recovering or seeking treatment
  • Future Lost Earnings: You can seek compensation for lost earning capacity if you can no longer work or earn less money because of your injuries.

Additional Expenses

Victims can recover money for various costs such as:

  • Travel Expenses – Transportation costs for medical visits.
  • Home Adjustments – Wheelchair ramps or medical equipment.
  • Caregiving Expenses – Cost of in-home care from a professional or a family member.

Pain and Suffering

Compensation for pain and suffering may include:

  • Physical pain
  • Emotional distress, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
  • Diminished quality of life due to permanent injuries or disabilities.

Non-economic damages are more challenging to put a value on. Testimony from the victim and medical experts often plays a key role in determining pain and suffering damages.

Wrongful Death Claims

Families who have lost a loved one due to Oxbryta complications may pursue compensation for:

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Lost financial support from the deceased
  • Loss of companionship and emotional support

Punitive Damages

If the drug committed serious negligence or misconduct, courts may award additional money to victims. These punitive damages are intended to punish wrongdoing.

At Rueb Stoller Daniel, we understand how devastating Oxbryta complications can be. We’re here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

San Diego Oxbryta Lawyer

How to File an Oxbryta Lawsuit in San Diego

If Oxbryta has caused serious health issues for you or a loved one, you may have legal options. Filing a lawsuit might seem challenging, but our Oxbryta lawyers in San Diego are here to help. Contact Rueb Stoller Daniel for a free consultation today.

Collecting Evidence

Our team will gather the necessary evidence for an Oxbryta lawsuit. This includes:

  • Medical Records – Proof of Oxbryta use and complications.
  • Communications from Doctors or Pharmacies – Information given about the drug’s risks.
  • Side Effect Reports – Complaints filed with healthcare providers or the FDA.
  • Expert Testimony – Medical professionals who can explain the dangers of Oxbryta.

The sooner you begin, the better we can strengthen your case. Reach out today.

Settlement or Trial

Many defective drug cases are settled outside of court. Our skilled attorneys will negotiate aggressively to get you the compensation you deserve. If your case goes to trial, Rueb Stoller Daniel will fight for your rights every step of the way.

What Is the Deadline for an Oxbryta Lawsuit in California?

California has strict deadlines for lawsuits related to dangerous or defective products like Oxbryta. If you don’t file your claim on time, you may lose your right to compensation.

In most cases, the law gives you two years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit (California Code of Civil Procedure 335.1). However, there are exceptions.

If you didn’t immediately know that Oxbryta harmed you, the discovery rule may apply. This means your two-year deadline starts when you first realized—or should have realized—that Oxbryta caused your injury.

To protect your rights, it’s important to speak with an Oxbryta lawyer as soon as possible.

How Much Does a San Diego Oxbryta Lawyer Cost?

If you need an Oxbryta lawyer in San Diego, Rueb Stoller Daniel is here to help. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs. We only receive payment if we win your case, taking a percentage of your final compensation.

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.

Call Now 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.