Kenalog injections, containing the corticosteroid triamcinolone acetonide, are used to treat inflammation and pain in various conditions. While generally safe and effective, there have been instances of side effects and lawsuits against the manufacturer, Bristol-Myers Squibb, alleging harm related to its use. Here’s a breakdown of the key issues:
1. Claims of Improper Epidural Injections:
- Several lawsuits argue that Kenalog should not be used for epidural injections due to potential serious risks, including paralysis.
- The FDA updated Kenalog’s labeling in 2011 to state it’s “not for epidural use,” acknowledging these concerns.
- Cases like Kreisman v. Surgery Center at Lone Tree LLC resulted in significant jury awards to patients experiencing paralysis after epidural Kenalog injections.
2. Other Potential Side Effects:
- While rare, severe side effects like stroke, vision loss, and allergic reactions have been reported with Kenalog use.
- More common side effects include skin changes, weight gain, mood swings, and infections.
- Lawsuits like McKenna v. Bristol-Myers Squibb Company allege the manufacturer failed to adequately warn about these risks.
3. Negligence and Informed Consent Issues:
- Some lawsuits claim healthcare providers were negligent in administering Kenalog without proper warnings or considering individual risks.
- Lack of informed consent, where patients weren’t fully informed about potential side effects before receiving the injection, is also raised in some cases.
4. Outcomes and Current Status:
- Legal outcomes vary across different lawsuits. Some have resulted in settlements or jury awards, while others have been dismissed.
- Each case hinges on specific evidence and circumstances.
- It’s important to note these are just allegations, and Bristol-Myers Squibb denies any wrongdoing in these cases.
Further Exploration:
- To delve deeper into specific lawsuits, search legal databases using case names mentioned above.
- Consulting news articles and legal websites dedicated to medical malpractice can provide additional context and information.
Disclaimer:
This information is for general awareness only and cannot be construed as legal advice. If you experienced side effects after a Kenalog injection or have concerns about its use, consult a qualified healthcare professional and consider seeking legal counsel to understand your rights and options.
Remember, individual experiences with Kenalog vary. Always discuss potential risks and benefits with your doctor before receiving any type of injection.
