All the Side Effects Reported by Oxbryta Users

Oxbryta (voxelotor) was developed as a breakthrough treatment for sickle cell disease (SCD), offering hope to many patients. However, while the drug initially showed promise, many users reported adverse effects, some of which were severe and even life-threatening.

If you or a loved one has experienced serious side effects from Oxbryta, you may be entitled to compensation. To explore your legal options, you should consult an Oxbryta lawsuit lawyer.

What Is Oxbryta and How Does It Work?

Oxbryta is an oral medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2019 for treating sickle cell disease in patients aged four and older. It was designed to reduce sickling in red blood cells, a process that leads to painful episodes, organ damage, and other complications. The drug works by binding to hemoglobin, preventing clumping in red blood cells and allowing them to maintain their normal shape and function.

In clinical trials, Oxbryta showed positive results. However, concerns arose when studies found that patients taking Oxbryta experienced more vaso-occlusive crises (painful blockages of blood flow) and a higher rate of death compared to those on a placebo. This led to further investigation into the drug’s safety.

Side Effects

While Oxbryta was meant to improve the quality of life for sickle cell patients, many users reported side effects ranging from mild discomfort to severe health complications.

Common Side Effects

Although these side effects can be bothersome, they are not considered life-threatening. Some of the most frequently reported mild to moderate side effects include:

• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Rash

Serious Side Effects

Vaso-Occlusive Crises (VOCs)

Instead of reducing VOCs, as intended, some patients experienced an increase in these painful episodes while taking Oxbryta. VOCs occur when sickled red blood cells block blood flow to organs and tissues, causing severe pain, swelling, and potential long-term damage.

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Some users developed allergic reactions to Oxbryta, including swelling of the face, lips, and throat (angioedema). In extreme cases, patients suffered from Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), a life-threatening immune system response that can cause fever, rash, and internal organ damage.

Stroke

Oxbryta has been linked to an increased risk of stroke. This occurs when blood vessels in the brain become blocked or rupture due to changes in blood cell function. Stroke can lead to permanent neurological damage, disability, or even death.

Organ Failure

Several reports suggested that Oxbryta use led to kidney and liver dysfunction. These vital organs help remove waste and toxins from the body, and their failure can cause severe health complications requiring intensive medical intervention.

Arthritis

Some patients reported joint pain and inflammation after taking Oxbryta. This is likely due to changes in blood circulation and inflammation caused by the drug, leading to stiffness and reduced mobility.

Death

Studies revealed that more deaths occurred in the Oxbryta treatment group compared to those taking a placebo. While the exact cause of these fatalities is still being studied, the findings raised enough concern to prompt the drug’s withdrawal from the market.

Conclusion

While Oxbryta was initially seen as a groundbreaking treatment for sickle cell disease, its long-term effects raised serious health concerns. Due to the rising safety concerns, Pfizer, the manufacturer of Oxbryta, voluntarily withdrew the drug from the market.

The FDA issued an advisory recommending that patients stop using Oxbryta and consult their healthcare providers for alternative treatment options. If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to Oxbryta, seeking legal and medical advice is essential. Always consult with healthcare professionals before starting or stopping any medication to ensure your safety.