Valsartan is a prescription drug, called an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), that’s used to treat high blood pressure, recent heart attacks, and heart failure. It works by blocking a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten. Valsartan relaxes those blood vessels and lowers blood pressure, which increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.
The main cause of concern for individuals using Valsartan is the chemical known as N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). These types of chemicals are in a class called genotoxic impurities and have the potential to cause harm to individuals, even at low levels.
Short-term exposure to NDMA can lead to:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Fever
- Nausea
- Jaundice
- Vomiting
- Abdominal cramps
- Issues with liver, kidneys, and lungs
- Liver damage (i.e. liver fibrosis and scarring)
Long-term exposure to NDMA can lead to an increased risk of developing:
- Liver cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Kidney Cancer
Williams Hart has successfully represented thousands of clients injured by negligent pharmaceutical companies. When you take prescribed medication to treat challenging health conditions like high blood pressure and heart failure, you expect to lead a healthier life. Unfortunately, massive pharmaceutical companies have routinely put profit above the safety of people just like you. The Valsartan lawyers at Williams Hart will not stand for this and are ready to fight for you. Contact us today to learn more.