Zinbryta is a drug used for the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis, a degenerative autoimmune disease which targets the central nervous system. Zinbryta works by binding to immune cells and reducing the activity of these cells attacking the body of a multiple sclerosis patient.

The drug was often prescribed to patients who had not responded well to two or more other multiple sclerosis drugs, due to its complex safety profile. Reports suggest that Zinbryta side effects may include liver failure, immune reactions, and, more recently revealed, encephalitis.

Whereas meningitis is an inflammation of the brain’s lining, encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain itself and is associated with flu-like symptoms including fever, headache, muscle pain, weakness, nausea, light sensitivity, and more.

Most cases of encephalitis are caused by a bacterial or viral infection and last two to three weeks. However, some cases can continue to progress in severity. If encephalitis progresses to severe stages, it can be associated with severe side effects including confused thinking, seizures, or problems with senses and movement.

Zinbryta Side Effects Recall

In March 2018, Biogen and AbbVie announced that they were initiating a voluntary recall of Zinbryta following reports that Zinbryta side effects may include encephalitis. At least 12 cases of encephalitis have been reported worldwide, three of which have been fatal. These cases prompted the European Medicines Agency to investigate Zinbryta side effects which in turn prompted Biogen and Abbvie’s voluntary recall.

Although the federal agency did not initiate the recall, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will remain involved throughout the process and says it is working closely with 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.”

A statement made by Alfred Sandrock, executive vice president and chief medical officer for Biogen, informs worldwide patients that their safety is a key priority to Biogen and AbbVie.

“Biogen believes the voluntary worldwide withdrawal of ZINBRYTA, a treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis, is in the best interest of patients,” said Sandrock at the time of the recall. “Biogen and AbbVie continue to prioritize patient safety and the care of multiple sclerosis patients worldwide.”

However, some consumers argue that the recall does not fix all wrongs. Although the worldwide recall with prevent further injury or death, it does not benefit individuals who have already suffered from Zinbryta side effects. These consumers may be eligible to seek financial compensation by filing a Zinbryta side effects lawsuit.

Patients who experienced Zinbryta side effects after taking the multiple sclerosis drug may be eligible to join a Zinbryta lawsuit investigation and recover compensation for their injuries. If you experienced Zinbryta side effects after taking the multiple sclerosis medication, you may be eligible to recover compensation through legal action. A Zinbryta side effects lawsuit could recover compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, loss of wages, wrongful death, and more.