Ketek

Ketek is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, pneumonia, and chronic bronchial infections. Ketek has been prescribed to more than six million people in the United States since its FDA approval in 2004. Serious side effects of Ketek were found after reports of liver toxicity in patients was linked to the use of the drug. In addition, Ketek has been found to cause other forms of liver damage including reports of liver failure.

When first submitted to the U. S. Food and Drug Administration, Ketek, an antibiotic with the generic name telithromycin, was not approved for use in the U.S. The FDA cited toxic effects related to liver damage.

Despite facts, the FDA reversed its original decision and approved Ketek in 2004 to treat pneumonia, sinusitis and bronchitis. Reports on Ketek’s dangerous side effects, included fatal and life-threatening acute respiratory failure with a rapid onset and progression. After nine Ketek related deaths, the FDA recommended a black box warning, the strongest warning that can be put on any drugs labeling. In December 2006 a panel the advisers to the FDA recommended that Ketek only be prescribed in the future for pneumonia.

Pharmaceutical Litigation Attorneys at Bailey & Galyen have extensive experience in cases involving injury or wrongful death associated with prescription drugs. Contact us to set an appointment with an attorney to discuss your case.