There have been several lawsuits filed against Zoetis, the manufacturer of the anti-itch medication Apoquel, alleging that the drug increases the risk of cancer in dogs. These lawsuits have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
Key Allegations in the Lawsuits
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Zoetis failed to adequately warn veterinarians about the potential cancer risk associated with Apoquel.
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Zoetis engaged in deceptive marketing practices by falsely claiming that Apoquel was a safe and effective medication.
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Zoetis exaggerated the benefits of Apoquel and downplayed the risks associated with the drug.
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Zoetis knew or should have known about the cancer risk associated with Apoquel before it was marketed to veterinarians.
Outcome of the Lawsuits
The MDL is still ongoing, and a trial date has not yet been set. However, several cases have settled out of court, with confidentiality agreements in place. In one case, a federal judge in California ruled that Zoetis must face a jury trial over allegations that Apoquel caused a dog to develop lymphoma.
Implications of the Lawsuits
The Apoquel and cancer lawsuits raise serious concerns about the safety of the drug. These lawsuits also underscore the importance of transparency and accountability in the pharmaceutical industry.
Recommendations for Pet Owners
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Talk to your veterinarian about the risks and benefits of Apoquel before giving it to your dog.
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Be aware of the potential side effects of Apoquel, including cancer.
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Monitor your dog for any signs of cancer, such as lumps, bumps, or changes in appetite or behavior.
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Report any concerns about your dog’s health to your veterinarian immediately.
Conclusion
The Apoquel and cancer lawsuits are an important step in protecting pets from potentially harmful medications. Pet owners should be aware of the risks associated with Apoquel and should take steps to protect their pets’ health.
Additional Tips
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Do your research on Apoquel before giving it to your dog. Read online reviews, talk to other pet owners, and talk to your veterinarian.
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Consider alternative treatments for your dog’s itchiness. There are many safe and effective treatments available, such as oatmeal baths and topical creams.
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Be an advocate for your pet. If you have any concerns about your dog’s health, don’t hesitate to ask your veterinarian questions.
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Report any adverse reactions to Apoquel to the FDA. The FDA is responsible for monitoring the safety of medications, and your report could help to protect other pets.
