Baycol (cerivastatin)

August 8, 2001: Bayer voluntarily removed their product Baycol from the market after reports of 40 deaths. Baycol, also known as cerivastatin, is a popular cholesterol-lowering drug produced by Bayer Pharmaceuticals since 1997. Over 700, 000 Americans take Baycol. According to the FDA, Baycol has been associated with fatalities involving a muscle condition called rhabdomylyosis, a side effect most common when Baycol is taken in conjunction with the cholesterol medication Gemfibrozil. Rhabdomylyosis is a life-threatening condition in which muscle cells break down and are released into the blood stream. Symptoms of rhabdomylyosis include muscle discomfort/ pain (especially in the lower back and calves), weakness, tenderness, fever, dark urine, nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, rhabdomylyosis may lead to renal failure, organ failure, and even death. Bayer first notified the FDA about these side effects in late 1999. The FDA advises anyone taking Baycol to consult his or her physician.

For more information about Baycol and your legal rights contact the Robichaux Law Firm.

For more info:
Bayer Pharmaceuticals: www.baycol.com
FDA: http://fda.gov/cder/drugi/infopage/baycol