The Federal Government launched a study to determine the long term effects of Prempro, a hormone replacement therapy drug, widely used by post menopausal women. The study, originally planned to last eight years, was abruptly halted after five years when researchers determined the side effects were so severe they could not continue to give patients the drug.
The study consisted of more than 16,000 women between the ages of 50 to 79. On May 31, 2002, the Data and Safety Monitoring Board made the decision to terminate the clinical trial. The board was alarmed at increases in heart problems and breast cancer among those women who were given Prempro, manufactured by drug maker Wyeth.
According to the study results, women who were given Prempro were more likely to develop serious problems compared to those in the placebo group including:
- 26% increase in breast cancer
- 41% increase in strokes
- 100% increase in blood clots
- 22% increase in incidents of cardiovascular disease
Additional side effects associated with Prempro include ovarian cancer, lupus and gall bladder cancer. A study released in May 2003 by the AMA also noted increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
Numerous lawsuits have been filed against drug maker Wyeth for the unsafe manufacture, distribution and failure to warn doctors and patients alike, of the serious risks associated with the use of this drug. One expert has likened Prempro to a Cancer Fertilizer.
If you or a loved one has taken Prempro, contact the Raphaelson Law Firm for a free no obligation consultation.