QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
What is Zelnorm?Zelnorm is a medicine used for the short-term treatment of women who have irritable bowel syndrome with constipation.
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
IBS is a disorder that interferes with the normal functions of the large intestine (colon). With IBS, the nerves and muscles in the bowel are extra-sensitive. For example, the muscles may contract too much when you eat. These contractions can cause cramping and diarrhea during or shortly after a meal. Or the nerves can be overly sensitive to the stretching of the bowel (because of gas, for example). Cramping or pain can result. The cause of IBS is not known.
How does Zelnorm work?
Zelnorm works by increasing the movement of stools through the bowels. For those patients who are helped, Zelnorm reduces pain and discomfort in the abdominal area, bloating, and constipation.
Why did the FDA want Zelnorm off the market?
Because the risks outweighed the benefits. Studies showed that patients on Zelnorm had an increased risk of serious cardiovascular adverse events, such as heart attack, stroke or angina.
What are some of the side effects of Zelnorm?
Headache, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, fatigue, heartburn, hemorrhoids, painful menstruation, trouble sleeping, abdominal pain, back pain, chest pain and vomiting.
Should I contact Novartis if I, or a family member, had a heart attack, angina, stroke, or ovarian cysts caused from taking Zelnorm?
No, you should first contact a law firm that specializes in personal injury and unsafe drug lawsuits.
I’m currently taking Zelnorm. What should I do?
Do not discontinue Zelnorm without first contacting your doctor. There may be alternative treatments you can try. If you have experienced any chest pain or any other symptoms of heart attack and stroke, seek emergency medical care immediately.
What are some alternative treatments for IBS?
General measures include increasing your daily fiber intake, and educing intake of caffeine, alcohol, and fried foods. Because intolerance to lactose (milk sugar) can mimic some symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, a test to determine if you are lactose intolerant should be done. sorbitol, the sugar in sugarless gum or candy, should be avoided. IBS is often caused by stress and tension, so try yoga and practice relaxation and meditation techniques.
IN addition, nicotine, like caffeine, can cause bowel disturbances. If you smoke, it could be affecting your symptoms and you really should quit. But remember that nicotine gum, while it may help you break the addiction of cigarettes, will not relieve your IBS symptoms because of the nicotine content of the gum.
What should I do if I have been a victim of prescription drugs?
You may be experiencing pain and suffering and severe financial hardships. You should not go through this difficult time alone. You, the patient, should not be paying for your doctor's mistakes or negligence. If you or a loved one are living with the consequences of the effects from a prescription drug, it is important to contact an experienced lawyer who can protect your rights and get you the compensation to which you are entitled.
| If you or a loved one has take Zelnorm and suffered from a heart attack or stroke,
contact us today. As one of the nation's premier pharmaceutical liability law firms, we represent consumers nationwide who have been victimized by defective pharmaceutical drugs and over-the-counter products, including Zelnorm.
Please feel free to contact us at 1-888-4-MEDLAW if you have questions or concerns. |
