If you are searching for a Permax lawyer in Texas because you suffered serious injuries resulting from Permax side effects and you want Permax litigation information, contact Jim S. Adler & Associates.

Permax (pergolide mesylate) was introduced in 1989 to treat Restless Legs Syndrome and the signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease such as tremors and other symptoms.  The drug works by helping the brain control movement of the body. Ordinarily, the brain does this by sending messages from one brain cell to the next.  The messages are sent via chemicals called neurotransmitters.  One such neurotransmitter is called dopamine.  People with Parkinson's disease suffer from a shortage of dopamine in the brain. This shortage makes it hard for them to control their movements, and produces the tremors typical of the disease.  Permax is usually prescribed along with Levodopa or L-dopa, which is often combined with another drug called carbidopa and sold under the brand name Sinemet.  Like Permax, Levodopa works to counteract a shortage of natural dopamine.  Permax helps the effects of Levodopa in the patient last longer.

In early 2003, the FDA issued a safety alert for the drug Permax because of the heart valve deficiencies that were being observed in patients.  A study published by the Mayo Clinic in December 2002 found that there was a possible correlation between the drug Permax and valvular heart disease, which prevents the hearts valves from sealing properly.  It has been suggested that Permax can cause cardiac valvulopathy involving one or more valves during therapy to occur in the aortic, mitral, and tricuspid valves.  Such suggestions have been substantiated enough to promote a labeling change to be required.  It is still unclear if fibrotic valvular changes are related to retroperitoneal, pleural, and pericardial fibrosis, which is a very well known side effect of Permax. Especially patients with a history of these cardiac problems should be especially cautious when using Permax.

The Mayo Clinic reported the serious adverse event findings in December 2002. Even though the Mayo Clinic’s findings only involved a few such cases, the damage was potentially life-threatening and Mayo doctors requested an in-depth study of the possible links between Permax and heart disease.  In addition, the Mayo Clinic recommended a well-designed prospective study be conducted at 3 to 4 centers and stated the costly approach may eventually be cost-effective considering the cost of possible litigation.  The Mayo Clinic also recommended that all Permax patients undergo heart tests, and that those suffering from the kind of heart damage associated with Permax be taken off the drug immediately.

While more must be learned about possible connections between Permax and heart disease, some known Permax side effects include involuntary spasms, dizziness, nausea and chest pain.  Other Permax side effects include hallucinations, difficulty sleeping or staying awake and digestive problems.

Developed by Eli Lilly & Co., Permax is now marketed in the United States by Amarin Pharmaceuticals Inc.  More than 500,000 people have taken the Permax since it was approved by the FDA.

The law limits the amount of time a patient has to file suit once an injury is sustained. The amount of time varies based on the theory of liability and the state in which the patient files the suit.

We can help you understand your legal rights and all of your options.  We can help you seek compensation for your injuries.

If you or a loved one experienced heart valvular disease or other cardiac problems while taking Permax or after taking Permax, contact a Jim S. Adler & Associates personal injury lawyer today. We provide a free consultation for Permax victims and their families. Complete our online case evaluation form for a free case review.

DISCLAIMER: Jim S. Adler & Associates, located at 3D/International Tower, 1900 West Loop South, 20th Floor, Houston, Texas 77027, is licensed in Texas to practice law but also works as necessary with outside and local counsel to litigate claims in other states, including:

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