TDF Drug Side Effects: Who Can File a Lawsuit?

Judge gavel, scales of justice and law books in court

At the heart of the TDF lawsuits filed against Gilead Pharmaceuticals is whether the manufacturer failed to properly warn doctors and patients of the HIV drug’s dangerous side-effects, and whether it withheld a less toxic alternative from the market in order to maximize profits. Those who took Gilead’s TDF-based HIV drugs like Viread and Truvada should be aware of the side-effects and seek immediate medical treatment if any of these potential symptoms appear.

Recognizing dangerous TDF side effects

Evidence suggests that Gilead’s research scientists knew as early as 2001, when Viread initially reached the market, that the drug could cause severe Kidney and bone damage. A number of studies have since confirmed a link between TDF-based drugs and damage to both the kidneys and bones.

TDF side effects affecting kidneys

Viread and its sister drugs have been linked to kidney damage, including loss of renal function, Fanconi syndrome (a disorder affecting kidney tubule function), chronic kidney disease, and acute renal failure. Loss of kidney function can require dialysis or a kidney transplant. Symptoms may include:

  • Fatigue
  • High blood pressure
  • Swelling of extremities
  • Loss of appetite
  • Itchiness
  • Frequent urination

TDF side effects affecting bones

Research has shown that patients treated with TDF drugs may experience loss of bone density, potentially leading to osteopenia or osteoporosis. This can cause complications resulting from bone loss and brittle bones that fracture easily. Some symptoms to watch for include:

  • Fractures from a minimal stress or fall
  • Loss of height, even if from stooping
  • Back pain
  • Poor bone density test results

Loss of bone density may be treated with lifestyle changes and/or medications. However, fractures and other injuries caused by the bone loss may have a significant long-term impact.

Options for a TDF drug lawsuit

Lawsuits have already been filed on behalf of patients who were prescribed TDF-based drugs. Tens of thousands of individuals who took Viread and related drugs have reported kidney and/or bone disease and may be potential plaintiffs or claimants.

A TDF lawsuit can help patients receive the compensation that they need to meet the financial burdens that kidney disease or bone loss can cause. This includes reimbursement for medical bills, repayment of lost income, and compensation for pain and suffering. Holding the manufacturer responsible for the injuries caused by its drugs also sends a message to the drug maker and the entire industry that putting profits above the health and safety of its customers is a short-term gain that is not worth it in the long run.

Our team is currently investigating cases of TDF medications and their side-effects. If you or a loved one underwent HIV treatment involving Viread, or one of its related drugs like Atripla, Stribild, Truvada, or Complera, and suffered kidney disease or bone loss, you may be eligible to file a TDF lawsuit.

Call today to schedule a free confidential case review with a TDF side-effects lawyer.