In February 2020, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) asked drug manufacturer Eisai, Inc. to voluntarily withdraw two of its medications from the market. These drugs were Belviq and Belviq XR, weight loss medications that, according to a post-approval study, may raise patients’ risk of cancer.
If you are a former Belviq patient who developed cancer after taking the medication, you are not alone. You may be eligible to seek financial compensation through a lawsuit against Eisai, Inc., and Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC has the skills and resources necessary to represent your claim.
Why Select Our Legal Team?
- We have over 20 years of experience representing victims of dangerous drugs, and our connections in the medical field can provide a valuable testimony to your claim.
- Our attorneys believe that honesty and transparency is integral to the success of your claim. We will always answer your questions and inform you of your case status.
- Our attorneys partner with leading Michigan firms to ensure you receive the most comprehensive and knowledgeable representation possible.
The Evidence Against Belviq
After its initial approval, the FDA asked Eisai, Inc. to conduct a clinical study examining the cardiovascular safety of Belviq and Belviq XR. This study examined the weight loss and health outcomes of 12,000 patients, some who took Belviq and some who took a placebo pill. At the conclusion of the trial, the study’s authors concluded that Belviq does not pose a risk to heart health — but the cancer risk was a different story.
The study found that 7.7% of Belviq patients developed cancer over the course of the study, compared to 7.1% of placebo group participants. According to the FDA, the risk of cancer outweighs the potential benefits of Belviq, and the agency asked Eisai, Inc. to voluntarily withdraw the drug after it reviewed the study. The manufacturer complied with this order, and now many Belviq patients are filing lawsuits for their damages.
Who Is Eligible for Belviq Compensation?
While you may be a former Belviq patient, not all cancer diagnoses qualify for Belviq litigation. Belviq use may contribute to the development of colorectal, pancreatic, or lung cancer, and you must meet a series of criteria to file your claim.
- You must have taken Belviq or Belviq XR for at least six months, which do not have to be consecutive.
- You must have developed colorectal, pancreatic, or lung cancer.
- You must have received your cancer diagnosis within seven years of Belviq use.
If you meet these criteria, you may be able to file a lawsuit in Michigan civil court. Speak to an attorney at Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC to confirm your eligibility.
Contact a Michigan Belviq Cancer Lawyer
All Michigan civil lawsuits are subject to a rule known as the statute of limitations, which states that you must file your Belviq cancer lawsuit by a certain date. If you do not file within this time period, the court will dismiss your claim — removing your chance at recovering compensation for your cancer.
You have three years from the date you received your cancer diagnosis to file your claim. To ensure you meet your statute of limitations, contact a Belviq attorney at Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC to begin the filing process.
Our attorneys provide nationwide representation to Belviq victims across the United States, including Michigan residents. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation — our firm responds to all case requests within 24 hours.