Trasylol

The Nature of the Drug: Trasylol (aprotinin) is an injectable drug that inhibits the production of enzymes that contribute to bleeding. Bayer manufactured the drug, and in 1993 the FDA approved it as a way of reducing surgical bleeding and of obviating the need for a blood transfusion. Trasylol is a member of a class of antibleeding drugs, of which Vioxx is also a member. Trasylol was used in heart-surgery patients, many of whom underwent coronary-artery bypass grafts; and it was used in other surgeries such as hip replacements.


Extensive evidence came to light of life-threatening side effects, however, and so Bayer withdrew Trasylol from the market in 2008. A few patients who received it during surgery are still living with the consequences.

The Hazards of Trasylol: The drug was recalled because of evidence that it leads to increased risk of kidney failure, stroke, and death. People who suffered from its side effects could also face additional medical problems and costs, such as dialysis and corrective surgery. A 2008 CBS story linked Trasylol to as many as 22,000 deaths.
The drug was also linked to encepolapathy in heart-surgery patients. That condition denotes changes in brain structure that can be traced to infection, medicinal side effects, tumor, or stroke. It can be indicated by loss of concentration, twitching, seizures, or personality changes.

Bayer has settled over 150 Trasylol lawsuits; other lawsuits may still be pending.

To Obtain Legal Relief: If you or a loved one were exposed to Trasylol during surgery and have experienced serious medical problems, you may still have valuable legal rights. Attorney Stephen A. Katz is available at (800) 251-3529 for a free consultation, or for legal representation.