Oxbryta, known generically as voxelotor, was once celebrated as a breakthrough treatment for people with sickle cell disease. The drug was designed to help red blood cells maintain their normal shape and improve oxygen delivery throughout the body. However, in 2024, new research revealed unexpected and alarming results, showing that Oxbryta could actually increase the risk of serious health complications.
As more studies came out, reports showed that many patients suffered due to injuries caused by Oxbryta use, including serious vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs). These crises occur when sickled cells block small blood vessels, cutting off oxygen to vital organs and causing pain or long-term organ damage. In response to these findings, Pfizer, the manufacturer, issued a global recall in September 2024, sparking a wave of lawsuits from affected patients and families.
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Overview of Oxbryta
Oxbryta, a hemoglobin S polymerization inhibitor, was developed to help people with sickle cell disease by preventing red blood cells from becoming stiff and sickle-shaped. In sickle cell disease, red blood cells contain an abnormal type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin S, which can stick together and form long, rigid chains.
This makes normally round and flexible red blood cells crescent-shaped, causing them to get stuck in small blood vessels and block blood flow. When blood flow is blocked, oxygen cannot reach tissues and organs, leading to severe pain and potential organ damage.
Oxbryta works by binding to hemoglobin and helping it hold onto oxygen longer, which stops these chains from forming. As a result, red blood cells remain round and flexible, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of painful blockages.
It also helps prevent organ complications and other severe issues caused by repeated blood vessel blockages. By keeping red blood cells functional, Oxbryta was intended to make life easier for patients struggling with the effects of sickle cell disease.
Rise of the Oxbryta Lawsuit
But by September 2024, new studies showed that Oxbryta users were experiencing more vaso-occlusive crises and other severe issues than those who were not taking the drug. These findings prompted Pfizer to issue a global recall to protect patients from further harm.
The recall led to lawsuits. Patients and affected families accused Pfizer of failing to warn about the risks and not catching the safety problems earlier. There is also a closer examination of how clinical trials and safety monitoring were done before Oxbryta was approved for us.
Timeline and Recent Updates on the Oxbryta Lawsuit
Who Is Eligible for an Oxbryta Lawsuit?
You may qualify to join the Oxbryta lawsuit if you:
