Lovaza, a prescription omega-3 fatty acid, has recently been associated with a higher risk of bleeding, causing some patients to file Lovaza lawsuits.

Lovaza is sold by GlaxoSmithKline and developed by Reliant Pharmaceuticals. GlaxoSmithKline warns that “Omega-3-acids may prolong bleeding time. Patients taking Lovaza and an anticoagulant or other drug affecting coagulation should be monitored periodically.”

The omega-3 fatty acids found in Lovaza are the same type found in fish oil. Lovaza is prescribed to help lower extremely high triglyceride (fat) levels in adults, and should be used along with a healthy diet and exercise. Omega-3 fatty acids are considered necessary for human health, but the body cannot make them. Therefore, doctors will often recommend that patients consume Omega-3 fatty acids as part of their diet by eating foods like fish, plants, and nut oils. Dietary supplements also offer these essential fatty acids.

The market for Omega-3 fatty acid fortified foods and dietary supplements is growing. U.S. consumers spend more than $6 billion annually on these kids of Omega-3 fatty acid products. An additional $916 million is spent annually on prescription fish oil capsules, including Lovaza.

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially those taken in doses of 3 grams daily or greater, have been found to potentially increase the risk of bleeding. This poses an even higher risk for those who, while taking Omega-3 fatty acids, are also taking blood thinners, anticoagulants, or other drugs associated with bleeding risk.

People with bleeding disorders are also at a greater risk. They may need to have their dosage of Omega-3 adjusted for their own safety.

A major bleeding risk called subdural hematoma has been reported by some users of Lovaza, which has led some users to file Lovaza lawsuits in response for GlaxoSmithKline’s alleged failure to adequately warn of the dangers associated with Lovaza.

What Is a Subdural Hematoma?

With subdural hematoma, excess blood collects between the layers of tissue surrounding the brain. The outermost layer of this tissue around the brain is called the dura, and the layer beneath it is called the arachnoid. Subdural hematoma causes bleeding between the dura and the arachnoid.

While subdural hematoma bleeding is not inside the brain itself, it can still negatively affect the brain. Bleeding accumulates and pressure builds, which puts an increasing amount of pressure on the brain from outside. This pressure, if allowed to reach a very high level, can cause unconsciousness and in some cases, death.

Subdural Hematoma Symptoms

• Headache
• Confusion
• Change in behavior
• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Lethargy or excessive drowsiness
• Apathy
• Weakness
• Seizures

Subdural Hematoma Treatment

Treatment of subdural hematomas can range from monitoring the condition to brain surgery. In cases where there is too much pressure on the brain, surgeons may have to perform operations to relieve the dangerous pressure.

People who took Lovaza or a similar Omega-3 fatty acid supplement or fish oil and have since suffered from a subdural hematoma may be able to file a Lovaza lawsuit. Drug manufacturers such as GlaxoSmithKline have a legal responsibility to adequately warn consumers about the potential side effects of using their drugs.

If you or a loved one suffered a subdural hematoma after taking Lovaza Omega-3 fatty acid, you may have a legal claim. Filing a Lovaza lawsuit could help you recover compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. Obtain a free legal review of your potential case by filling out the form on this page now.

Do YOU have a legal claim? Fill out the form on this page now for a free, immediate, and confidential case evaluation. The attorneys who work with Top Class Actions will contact you if you qualify to let you know if an individual Lovaza lawsuit or Lovaza class action lawsuit is best for you. [In general, Lovaza lawsuits are filed individually by each plaintiff and are not class actions.] Hurry — statutes of limitations may apply.

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