Benicar Lawsuits Consolidated

A federal judicial panel in New Jersey granted a consolidation of lawsuits involving Benicar, a prescription drug used to treat high blood pressure.

According to the suits, Benicar can cause severe gastrointestinal injuries and the company knew but failed to sufficiently warn patients of the risks associated with use of this drug.

A senior FDA regulator went against supervisors to advocate stronger warnings about the drugs known as angiotensin receptor blockers, or ARBs, but his warnings were ignored.

In July 2013, the FDA issued a safety alert  for Benicar (olmesartan medoxomil), made by Daiichi Sankyo, after the agency discovered numerous users reported severe diarrhea and weight loss associated with the use. And, in some cases, patients developed intestinal damage.

Side effects and injuries linked to Benicar

• Chronic Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Nausea
• Dehydration
• Villous Atrophy (erosion of the intestinal structure that prevents absorption of needed nutrients)

An estimated 67 million Americans suffer from high blood pressure and use medications such as Benicar to keep their hypertension in normal range.

To date, the company acknowledges “approximately six actions” about Benicar allegations related to gastrointestinal “injuries.”