Many healthcare professionals have seen the positive impact of Tepezza on patients with thyroid eye disease. Tepezza, also known as Tepezza (teprotumumab-trbw), is a medication that helps reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes, improving vision and appearance. However, many have seen the financial burden that comes with the medication, and the recent Tepezza lawsuit in 2023 for hearing loss has shed light on the cost versus hearing loss side effects issue.
Overview of the Tepezza lawsuit in 2023
A Tepezza lawsuit was filed in April 2021 against Horizon Therapeutics, the drug’s manufacturer, by a group of patients who experienced hearing loss after taking the drug. The lawsuit alleges that the company failed to warn patients of the potential side effects of the drug, which include hearing loss.
The lawsuit seeks to secure compensation for those affected by the drug, including medical expenses and pain and suffering. It also seeks to hold the company accountable for its failure to provide adequate warnings.
Horizon Pharmaceuticals Inc. was aware of hearing loss and other related otologic symptoms in their clinical trials and failed to warn consumers and medical professionals. It reported that during trials, only 10% had a risk of hearing problems associated with Tepezza, however the 2021 Endocrine Society study showed as many as 65% of Tepezza users did suffer from some level of hearing loss or related hearing problems.
“Our results demonstrate a much higher percentage of teprotumumab-treated thyroid eye disease patients with new otologic symptoms than previously reported […]. Patients with baseline hearing loss should be counseled on this potential risk and strongly advised to undergo baseline audiometric testing with frequent monitoring.” [1]
If this data was made available, countless amounts of people could have re-evaluated if they should have taken this new drug.
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Horizon Pharmaceuticals Inc. was aware of hearing loss and other related otologic symptoms in their clinical trials and failed to warn consumers and medical professionals. It reported that during trials, only 10% had a risk of hearing problems associated with Tepezza, however the 2021 Endocrine Society study showed as many as 65% of Tepezza users did suffer from some level of hearing loss or related hearing problems.
Introduction to Tepezza and its benefits
Tepezza was approved by the FDA in 2020 and has since been used to treat thyroid eye disease, a condition that causes inflammation and swelling in the eyes. The medication works by targeting insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), which is responsible for the inflammation and swelling. Tepezza is administered through an intravenous infusion, and patients typically receive eight treatments over a period of 24 weeks.
The benefits of Tepezza are numerous. Patients experience improved vision, reduced swelling, and a better appearance of the eyes. The medication has been a game-changer for patients with thyroid eye disease, who previously had limited treatment options.
Understanding the Tepezza cost and how it affects patients
The cost of Tepezza is high, with each treatment costing around $14,000. That means a full course of treatment can cost over $100,000. Insurance may cover some of the cost, but patients are still left with a significant financial burden.
For many patients, the cost of Tepezza is simply unaffordable. They may have to choose between paying for the medication and other essential expenses, such as rent, food, and utilities. This can lead to financial hardship and even bankruptcy.
Tepezza side effects and their impact on patients
Like all medications, Tepezza has side effects that can affect patients. The most common side effects include muscle spasms, nausea, and diarrhea. However, there are more serious side effects that patients should be aware of, including hearing loss.
From the drug manufacturer’s website:
What are the long term side effects of Tepezza?
“The most common side effects of TEPEZZA include muscle cramps or spasms, nausea, hair loss, diarrhea, feeling tired, high blood sugar, hearing problems, taste changes, headache, dry skin, weight loss, nail problems, and changes in menstruation.” – Source: https://www.tepezza.com/about-tepezza/side-effects-and-safety
Hearing loss is a rare but serious side effect of Tepezza. Patients who experience hearing loss may require medical intervention, including cochlear implants or hearing aids. The impact of hearing loss can be significant, affecting a patient’s quality of life and ability to work.
The hearing loss settlement amounts in the Tepezza lawsuit
The Tepezza lawsuit includes a settlement for patients who experienced hearing loss as a result of taking the medication. The settlement amounts vary based on the severity of the hearing loss and the impact it had on the patient’s life.
Patients who experienced mild hearing loss may receive a settlement of up to $50,000. Those who experienced moderate hearing loss may receive a settlement of up to $150,000. Patients who experienced severe hearing loss may receive a settlement of up to $500,000.
The role of insurance companies in covering the Tepezza cost
Insurance companies play a significant role in covering the cost of Tepezza. However, many insurance companies have strict criteria for coverage, which can make it difficult for patients to access the medication.
Insurance companies may require patients to try other treatments before covering the cost of Tepezza, or they may limit the number of treatments that are covered. This can lead to delays in treatment and additional financial burden on patients.
Possible solutions to help patients with the Tepezza cost
There are several possible solutions to help patients with the cost of Tepezza. One solution is for the manufacturer to lower the price of the medication, making it more affordable for patients. Another solution is for insurance companies to expand coverage criteria, ensuring that more patients have access to the medication.
Patient assistance programs can also provide financial support to patients who are struggling to afford Tepezza. These programs may offer discounts, grants, or other financial assistance to eligible patients.
The importance of patient advocacy in the Tepezza lawsuit
Patient advocacy is crucial in the Tepezza lawsuit. Patients have a right to voice their concerns about the high cost of the medication and the impact it has on their lives. Patient advocacy groups can help raise awareness of the issue and advocate for change.
Patients can also take action by contacting their elected officials and urging them to take action on the issue. By working together, patients, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups can help ensure that patients have access to the medications they need.
Conclusion and final thoughts on the Tepezza lawsuit in 2023
The Tepezza lawsuit in 2023 has shed light on the hearing loss problems and the impact it has on patients. While Tepezza has been a game-changer for patients with thyroid eye disease, the high cost of the medication has made it unaffordable for many.
Big Pharma – Many times it’s Profit over People.
If you have experienced hearing loss after taking Tepezza, you may be eligible to join the class action lawsuit. To file a claim, you must first complete and submit a claim form on this page. This 100% secure claim form can be used to start the lawsuit claim.
The process to file a Tepezza lawsuit is simple process as follows:
- Contact us via phone or begin by submitting the questionnaire form on this page.
- You’ll be contacted by one of our expert intake staff that will ask you a few questions.
- After the intake staff has all the information needed, you then decide to move forward with this lawsuit and receive cash compensation for your suffering.
Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35227694/
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/drug-trial-snapshot-tepezza
Citation 1: Sears CM, Azad AD, Amarikwa L, et al. Hearing dysfunction after treatment with teprotumumab for thyroid eye disease. Am J Ophthalmol. February 25, 2022.
Tepezza Lawsuit 2023, How Tepezza is affecting patients hearing page updated on March 10, 2023.