The multiple sclerosis drug Zinbryta has been linked with a number of serious side effects, including Zinbryta brain inflammation and Stevens Johnson syndrome.

Background of Zinbryta

Zinbryta (daclizumab), recently withdrawn from the market, is a multiple sclerosis drug manufactured by Biogen and Abbvie. Zinbryta was released onto the market after its approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on May 27, 2016.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) involves the immune system attacking and damaging the protections around the central nervous system. Essentially, Zinbryta works to counteract this by binding to immune cells, reducing the cell activity of the cells attacking the immune system.

Zinbryta is meant to add options for patients who have not found two or more MS drugs effective.

Zinbryta Side Effects

Zinbryta has been associated with a number of serious side effects like Zinbryta brain inflammation, also known as encephalitis. This condition is often caused by a bacterial or viral infection, but it can also be caused by an immune system disorder.

Symptoms of Zinbryta brain inflammation are similar to those of the flu, and can last for two or even three weeks. Symptoms include muscle pain, fatigue, fever, nausea or vomiting, irritability, light sensitivity, headache, seizures, and more.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has investigated 12 reports of major Zinbryta brain inflammation from encephalitis and meningoencephalitis. Three of the cases involved in the investigations eventually proved fatal.

Other reported Zinbryta side effects include:

• Encephalitis and other immune reactions
• Liver failure and injury
• Stevens Johnson syndrome

Zinbryta Recall

After receiving reports from patients over a slew of side effects, Zinbryta’s manufacturers issued a voluntary recall of their multiple sclerosis drug. Biogren and Abbvie announced the recall on March 2, 2018, saying that they would be removing Zinbryta from the global market because of reports of Zinbryta brain inflammation, including encephalitis and meningoencephalitis.

The FDA has also been made aware of the complications linked with Zinbryta. Since the voluntary recall was issued, the FDA has stated that it is now working closely with the manufacturers, Biogen and Abbvie, “to help ensure a well-organized withdrawal from the market in the United States, and to ensure that healthcare professionals have the information they need to carefully transition their patients using Zinbryta to another treatment.”

The Zinbryta recall is relatively relaxed, as the drug isn’t being pulled immediately. The FDA announced that “no new patients will start taking Zinbryta or participate in clinical studies,” and it will continue to be available for use until April 30, 2018.

Filing a Zinbryta Lawsuit

If you or someone you love has suffered from Zinbryta brain inflammation, Stevens Johnson syndrome, or other side effects after using this multiple sclerosis drug, you may be able to file a lawsuit. Filing a lawsuit cannot take away the pain and suffering caused by Zinbryta brain inflammation and other major complications, but, if successful, it can help to alleviate the financial burden caused by medical expenses and lost wages.