The FDA is warning that individuals taking Gilead’s HIV drug tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) could experience kidney disease. Gilead knew its drug was dangerous, yet the company released it anyway. There are multiple less toxic versions on the market, yet Gilead wanted to increase its profits instead of helping those struggling with HIV.
About TDF
Gilead’s TDF drugs belong to a class of antiretroviral drugs known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors that are prescribed to treat HIV. These drugs inhibit the activity of reverse transcriptase. This enzyme slows the progression of HIV. TDF drugs can slow the progression of HIV. Those with HIV need to take anti-viral medication in order to survive. There are currently five TDF medications including Viread, Truvada, Atripla, Complera and Stribild.
Gilead TDF Kidney Issues
Nearly 20,000 people taking TDF reported kidney damage. Kidneys are normally resilient to damage, however, when symptoms start, it is hard to reverse them. Kidneys filter wastes from the bloodstream into the urine and out the body. However, those taking TDF reported chronic kidney disease. This prevented the kidneys from effectively filtering the bloodstream.
Symptoms of Gilead TDF Kidney Issues
The symptoms of Gilead TDF Kidney issues include:
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Poor concentration
Swelling of feet and ankles
Itchy skin
Need to urinate frequently
High blood pressure
Abnormal protein levels in the urine
High creatinine levels diagnosed by a physician or other healthcare provider
Abnormal glomerular filtration rate (GFR) levels (15 to 90) as determined by tests and blood work
Death due to renal failure
Aside from chronic kidney disease, individuals taking Gilead’s TDF drugs are at risk of developing several other kidney-related conditions, including Acute kidney injury (AKI) or acute renal failure (ARF). This is a kidney disorder in which the kidneys suddenly have difficulty filtering waste from the blood. Another is Fanconi Syndrome. This is a kidney tubule disorder that causes excessive levels of glucose, potassium, and bicarbonate to be excreted in the urine. Lastly, there is a danger of developing Renal Tubular Acidosis. This is a kidney condition involving the build-up of acid in the bloodstream due to the kidneys failing to filter it out.
TDF Victims
If you or a loved one has been harmed by Gilead TDF medication, you need an attorney with experience helping people who have been harmed by pharmaceutical drugs. The attorneys at the Michael Brady Lynch Firm know what it takes to go up against drug manufacturers to get clients what they need.
If a jury finds the conduct of a drug company in manufacturing and selling a drug to be reckless, they may award punitive damages to punish the company and deter similar conduct in the future. Therefore, if you developed kidney issues after taking TDF meds, please speak to us to learn more about your rights.
You deserve compensation. It can never replace what you have lost. But, it can help you recover medical expenses, lost wages and the loss of an ability to work. The consultation is completely free, and you are under zero obligation. We are available 24/7 to take your call.