What is Baycol?
Baycol is the brand name of cerivastatin ["seh-RIH-va STAH-tin"], a drug introduced in 1997 to help lower cholesterol. It is one of several drugs known as "statins" which help lower so-called "bad kind" of cholesterol (low density lipoproteins or "LDL"). It does this by promoting production of high density lipoproteins (HDL), the "good" cholesterol that lowers the artery-clogging risk of high levels of LDL.

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Why is it dangerous?
The FDA has linked Baycol to 31 deaths in the U.S. About half of these cases involved patients who were given Baycol together with gemfibrozil ["jem FI-bro zil"], a drug that helps control different fatty substances in the bloodstream. Product labeling warned against possible drug interactions with gemfibrozil, but they continued to be prescribed together despite warnings that they should not. Regardless, Baycol has been responsible for deaths and dangerous health problems by itself. It can damage skeletal muscle and cause kidney toxicity in the form of rhabdomyolysis. This condition can lead to kidney failure and death.

What is rhabdomyolysis?
Rhabdomyolysis ["rab-do my OHL-uh-sis"] is a rare condition in which skeletal muscle is damaged and toxins are released into the bloodstream. It is sometimes seen in people who undergo extreme physical exertion, when muscles are pushed past the point of overwork. The muscles' breakdown releases myoglobin (a cell protein that contains iron), which then circulates in the blood. Myoglobin builds up in the kidneys to the point of toxicity. This is how Baycol has led to deadly kidney failure in a significant number of patients who were prescribed it.

What are the warning signs?
Symptoms of rhabdomyolysis can include pain, muscle weakness, muscle tenderness, and muscle contractions. Other general warning signs include fever, tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), nausea, vomiting, and/or dark urine color. It can ultimately lead to kidney failure and heart attack.

What has been done about this danger?
On August 8, 2001, Bayer voluntarily withdrew Baycol after four years on the market. All statins were recognized for carrying a slight risk of kidney complications, but after the FDA received 31 reports of deaths linked to Baycol, it was found to carry a higher risk than all other statins on the market.

What should I do if I took Baycol?
Since the drug's dangers were enough for it to be withdrawn from the market, the FDA asks that anyone on Baycol stop taking the drug immediately. The next step would be to contact your physician to ask what alternatives to Baycol are right for you. Finally, if you were prescribed Baycol, even if you haven't noticed any symptoms, you may be due compensation for your exposure to these health risks. Call us or fill out our online consultation form today, so that we can evaluate your claim and see what we can do for you!

Complete a FREE Consultation Form online

Free Case Evaluation!
If you have been injured by this drug, contact the Villari law firm now for a free consultation because time may be of the essence to protect your legal rights. Complete a FREE Consultation Form online or Call Us today toll free at 1-888-729-2901!