subject: Defective Drugs That Could Harm Women Know The Facts [print this page] Many drugs that are supposed to be helpful can actually end up being harmful. Read about some dangerous drugs that women need to be know about.
DES (Diethylstilbestrol)
Diethylstilbestrol is an estrogen drug that was frequently given to pregnant women to prevent miscarriage and secure a healthy pregnancy. The drug was predominantly prescribed by physicians from 1938 to 1971. Following scientific testing, DES was not found to have any effect on miscarriage. However, serious dangers resulting from the drug were found in female offspring exposed to DES in the womb. DES exposure to the fetus increased the risk of a rare cancer of the vagina or cervix called clear cell adenocarcinoma, as well as the risk of infertility or pregnancy problems.
Herceptin
Also known as trastuzumab, Herceptin is a drug used for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer. Some patients taking Herceptin have experienced heart damage as a result of the medication. Herceptin has also been found to cause severe allergic reactions that could be life threatening in users of the drug. Adverse reactions generally occur within 24 hours of treatment, and a physician should closely monitor patients undergoing Herceptin injections. Victims of dangerous drugs such as Herceptin can choose an attorney our directory of medical malpractice lawyers for legal counsel.
Prempro
Prempro is a drug taken by women undergoing Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to treat post-menopausal symptoms. Recent studies have reported a connection between Prempro use and breast cancer, heart disease, heart attacks, and blood clots. Patients taking Prempro are urged to speak with their physician about the dangers associated with the drug.
Thalidomide
Also known as Thalomid, thalidomine is used for the treatment and prevention of skin conditions caused by erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL). Thalidomine was originally used as a sleeping pill and to treat morning sickness until the dangers this medication presented to the fetus was discovered. Patients who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breast-feeding should not take thalidomine because it could kill the fetus or result in serious birth defects.
