Cancer Risk for Children Using TNF Blockers
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Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers keep down the production of TNF-alpha, which can cause inflammation leading to bone, cartilage and tissue damage. An FDA analysis showed that TNF blockers pose a greater risk of cancer to children and adolescents. Based on that risk, the FDA is requiring stronger warnings on the prescribing information for TNF blockers, which include Remicade, Enbrel, Humira, Cimzia, and Simponi. TNF blockers are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Crohn's disease, and other chronic inflammatory diseases.
As early as 2006, the FDA knew of a possible general cancer risk with TNF blockers, and a risk of lymphoma in children and young adults. After receiving 30 reports of cancer in children under 18 using TNF blockers, the FDA began an investigation in 2008. The results of the investigation showed that after 30 months of treatment with TNF blockers, there was an increased risk of cancer. Doctors should discuss the risk with families, and patients using TNF blockers should be monitored for malignancies both during and after treatment with TNF blockers.
If you have a child who used TNF blockers and developed cancer, contact Sheller, P.C. to discuss potential legal claims you may have. The Sheller firm has a history of successfully representing people who have been injured by prescription drugs.