Zithromax Heart Attack Link Discovered
By Jessica Tyner
Zithromax, or Z-Pak, is a widely prescribed antibiotic given to children as well as adults for something as minor as bronchitis. During a 14-year study, it was discovered that Zithromax can lead to sudden death by way of a heart attack.
Vanderbilt University took a close look at the side effects of Zithromax, and published the study results in the New England Journal of Medicine. Between 1992 and 2006, approximately 540,000 Tennessee residents on Medicaid were given some form of antibiotic. Patients who took Zithromax were twice as likely to suffer heart issues compared to other patients on antibiotics. There were 29 reports of heart-related deaths in the study, and most of the victims took Zithromax. Most victims already had heart-related issues.
This last point is what the makers of Zithromax cling to when defending their product. Obviously, someone with a pre-existing condition will be more likely “pushed over the edge” than a completely healthy person. However, this is assuming doctors ask the right questions, read patient charts in their entirety, and that patients volunteer information (or know about heart issues) when seeing a doctor for an unrelated complaint. Those are a lot of “what ifs” when a person’s life is at stake.
A Deadly Zithromax Numbers Game
The Vanderbilt University estimates that for every million antibiotic prescriptions, there are 85 Zithromax deaths compared to 30 amoxicillin (another popular antibiotic) deaths. Of course, vulnerable populations such as young children and the elderly face an even higher risk of Zithromax-induced heart problems.
The complete Vanderbilt Study was published in May 2013, and the FDA has promised to look at it closely. However, until the FDA issues a formal response to the study, the agency has recommended that patients keep taking Zithromax if their doctor prescribed it.
Were You or a Loved One Prescribed Zithromax?
Zithromax is very common. If you or a loved one took Zithromax and experienced a heart issue, you may have a Z-Pak legal claim. It’s time to take action.
Uncover more information at the Zithromax, Z-Pak, Azithromycin Heart Attack, Stevens Johnson Syndrome & Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis Class Action Lawsuit Settlement & Investigation. You can submit your story free of charge. If you have a case, an attorney will contact you for a complimentary Zithromax claim review.
Updated June 11th, 2013
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