People are filing lawsuits against Pfizer after experiencing severe complications from taking Oxbryta (voxelotor), a drug intended to treat sickle cell disease (SCD). On September 25, 2024, the drug was voluntarily withdrawn from global markets after data revealed it increased the risk of vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs) and death conditions it was meant to prevent.
Lawsuits allege that the manufacturer failed to validly warn patients about these dangers. Injured patients and families are now seeking compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, and wrongful death associated with the drug.
Oxbryta (voxelotor) was a prescription medication capable of treating sickle cell disease (SCD) by inhibiting hemoglobin S polymerization. It was designed to target the root cause of sickling cells to prevent complications. However, post-marketing studies showed that instead of helping, widespread use was associated with worse outcomes, including higher rates of VOCs and mortality.
While common side effects included headache, fever, and rash, the lawsuit focuses on severe, life-threatening complications that were not adequately warned against.
Critical Complications
Vaso-Occlusive Crises (VOCs): Severe pain episodes caused by blocked blood flow.
Stroke: A life-threatening event caused by disrupted blood supply to the brain.
Organ Damage: Specifically affecting the kidneys and liver secondary to VOCs.
Pediatric Deaths: Higher rates of mortality observed in children in registry-based studies.
Other Vascular Events
Blood Clots: Increased risk of serious vascular events.
Severe Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
Acute Chest Syndrome: Often associated with severe VOCs.
If you or a loved one suffered severe injury or death after taking Oxbryta, you may be entitled to significant compensation.
You typically qualify to file a claim if you:
Were prescribed Oxbryta for Sickle Cell Disease.
Experienced a Vaso-Occlusive Crisis (VOC), Stroke, or Organ Damage during or after treatment.
Suffered from other serious vascular events or blood clots.
Are a surviving family member of a patient who died due to complications linked to Oxbryta.
On September 25, 2024, Pfizer voluntarily withdrew Oxbryta globally after post-market clinical trials indicated that the risks of the drug—specifically an increased incidence of vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs) and fatal events—outweighed its benefits.
Oxbryta has been linked to severe complications including increased vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), blood clots, serious vascular events, organ damage (kidney/liver), stroke, and pediatric deaths. These are in addition to common side effects like headache, diarrhea, and rash.
You may be eligible if you were prescribed Oxbryta for Sickle Cell Disease and experienced a vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC), organ damage, stroke, or other severe complications during or after treatment. Surviving family members of patients who passed away due to these complications may also file a wrongful death claim.
Settlements vary based on the severity of injuries and circumstances. Estimated ranges for moderate cases (non-fatal VOCs) are $50,000–$200,000, while severe cases or wrongful death claims could range from $500,000 to $1.5 million or more. There is no guaranteed amount.