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Injured by Raptiva?

Raptiva (Generic: Efalizumab) is a humanized monoclonal antibody targeted toward the hyperproliferative pathology of psoriasis. As an immunosuppressive agent, Raptiva "has the ability to enhance the threat of infection and reactivate latent, chronic infections," the label cautions. Serious infections and malignancies reported in patients taking Rapitva include malignant melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer, non-cutaneous solid tumors, and lymphomas.

On, July 20, 2005, the FDA announced a new warning on the Genentech psoriasis drug Raptiva (efalizumab) following reports of four cases of hemolytic anemia that were diagnosed four to six months after patients started on the monoclonal antibody. Two of the cases occurred during clinical trials of Raptiva, and the other two were reported as post-marketing events, according to the FDA.

In a "Dear Healthcare Provider" letter issued July 20, Genentech reported that in two severe cases, hemoglobin levels dropped to 6 and 7 g/dL. "A causal relationship between Raptiva and these events has not been established but cannot be excluded," the letter said.

The package insert for Raptiva was modified to include a warning to stop use of the drug should hemolytic anemia occur. In addition, the information sheet has been updated to include news of post marketing reports of necrotizing fasciitis, tuberculous pneumonia, bacterial sepsis with seeding of distant sites, severe pneumonia with neutropenia, and worsening of infections such as pneumonia despite antimicrobial therapy.

If you or a loved one took Raptiva and suffered side effects, please fill out the form at the right for a free case evaluation by a qualified drug side effects attorney.