Baycol

In 2001, Bayer Pharmaceutical Division, voluntarily removed the drug Baycol from the market. Pharmacies have been instructed to return the drug to the manufacturer. Originally, the drug was intended to lower cholesterol and to help prevent heart disease. It turns out, that in some cases it can cause a fatal form of rhabdomyolysis. The FDA has supported the decision to remove the drug from the marketplace.

Originally approved in 1997 by the FDA, Baycol was a member of a community of drugs known as "statins". These drugs work by blocking an enzyme responsible for creating cholesterol. All drugs that fall under this category have been known to cause the rare case of rhabdomyolysis, which causes muscle cells to breakdown and return to the blood stream.

Even though all "statins" cause the rare case of rhabdomyolysis, Baycol was responsible for causing the fatal form of the condition much more frequently than other "statins". Reports of fatality were common among those taking a high dose of the drug, elderly patients, and also when used in combination with gemfibrozil. So far there have been 31 reports of fatalities that have been associated with Baycol.

Symptoms of the condition caused by Baycol include muscle pain, weakness, vomiting, fever, and nausea. The pain involved with Rhabdomyolysis may either be localized to a specific muscle group or it may be generalized throughout the entire body. For some reason pain is often felt in the calves or the lower back. Sometimes the muscle injury associated with the condition can be so severe that it can cause organ and renal failure, which can be fatal.

All patients taking Baycol should discuss alternative medications with their physician and discontinue use immediately. If a patient using the drug is experiencing muscle pain, they should discontinue use immediately. By stopping use of the drug your cholesterol may begin to rise again within a few days of discontinuing use.

Alternatives to Baycol

There are several alternatives to the Baycol that produces similar results, including: Lipitor, Lescol, Zocor, and Pravastatin. A physician will be able to help you determine which drug is right for your needs. All of these drugs have also been known to cause rhabdomyolysis on rare occasions, but none of those instances have been fatal.

If you or someone you love has unduly suffered due to Baycol side effects, you may be entitled to compensation for your condition. Contact a Baycol side effect lawyer and get started on your case today.

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