Are you or someone you know a victim of mesothelioma caused by Opdivo? If so, you may be entitled to compensation. Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was commonly used in construction materials before its harmful effects were widely known.
Opdivo is a drug that is used to treat various types of cancer, including mesothelioma. However, recent studies have shown that Opdivo can actually make mesothelioma worse by suppressing the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight the cancer.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma after taking Opdivo, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Many victims are now filing lawsuits against the manufacturers of Opdivo to hold them accountable for their negligence.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelium – a thin layer of tissue that covers the lungs, abdomen, and heart. The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs. Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdomen, and pericardial mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the heart.
Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction materials until the 1980s. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the mesothelium and cause inflammation and scarring. Over time, this can lead to the development of cancer cells.
What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer. In the early stages, there may be no symptoms at all. As the cancer progresses, common symptoms include:
| Symptoms of Mesothelioma | Commonality |
|---|---|
| Chest pain or tightness | 80% |
| Shortness of breath | 78% |
| Fatigue | 74% |
| Persistent cough | 60% |
| Lumps under the skin | 57% |
| Unexplained weight loss | 51% |
How is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?
Mesothelioma is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests, such as x-rays and CT scans, and biopsy procedures, in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the affected area and analyzed for cancer cells.
What is Opdivo?
Opdivo is a drug that belongs to a class of medications called checkpoint inhibitors. These drugs work by blocking certain proteins on the surface of cancer cells, which can help the body’s immune system detect and destroy the cancer cells more effectively.
Opdivo is used to treat several different types of cancer, including melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
How Does Opdivo Affect Mesothelioma?
While Opdivo has been shown to be effective in treating some types of cancer, recent studies have suggested that it may actually make mesothelioma worse. This is because mesothelioma cells have a unique way of evading the body’s immune system, and suppressing the immune system with Opdivo may make it even harder for the body to fight the cancer.
In addition, many patients with mesothelioma who take Opdivo experience serious side effects, such as fatigue, diarrhea, and liver damage. For some patients, these side effects may be worse than the symptoms of the cancer itself.
Why are Victims Filing Lawsuits?
Victims of mesothelioma caused by Opdivo are filing lawsuits against the drug’s manufacturers for several reasons:
Negligence
Many victims argue that the manufacturers of Opdivo were negligent in their testing and marketing of the drug. They claim that the manufacturers knew or should have known about the risks of using Opdivo to treat mesothelioma and that they failed to adequately warn patients and doctors about these risks.
Product Liability
Others argue that Opdivo is a defective product because it is inherently dangerous and can cause harm even when used as directed. They claim that the manufacturers of Opdivo should be held liable for the damages caused by their product.
Misrepresentation
Some victims allege that the manufacturers of Opdivo misrepresented the safety and efficacy of the drug, leading patients to believe that it was a safe and effective treatment for mesothelioma.
Compensation
Finally, many victims are filing lawsuits to seek compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Mesothelioma is a devastating disease that can be expensive to treat, and many victims and their families are struggling to cope with the financial burden of their illness.
How Can You File a Lawsuit?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma after taking Opdivo, you may be entitled to compensation. To file a lawsuit, you should contact a qualified mesothelioma lawyer who has experience handling cases involving dangerous drugs.
Your lawyer will be able to advise you on the best course of action, gather evidence to support your case, and represent you in court if necessary. If you win your case, you may be awarded financial compensation to help cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lawsuits for Mesothelioma Opdivo
1. What is the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit for mesothelioma caused by Opdivo?
The statute of limitations varies depending on the state where the lawsuit is filed. In many states, you have two to three years from the date of diagnosis to file a lawsuit. However, there are exceptions to this rule, so it is important to consult with a mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible.
2. Can family members of a mesothelioma victim file a lawsuit?
Yes, in most cases family members of a mesothelioma victim can file a lawsuit on behalf of their loved one. This is known as a wrongful death lawsuit.
3. What damages can be awarded in a mesothelioma lawsuit?
Victims of mesothelioma may be awarded financial compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the defendant for their negligence.
4. How long does it take to settle a mesothelioma lawsuit?
The length of time it takes to settle a mesothelioma lawsuit can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the defendant to negotiate. In some cases, a lawsuit may be settled within a few months, while in others it may take several years.
5. Can I still file a lawsuit if I signed a waiver when I started treatment with Opdivo?
Possibly. While signing a waiver may limit your legal options, it does not necessarily prevent you from filing a lawsuit. A mesothelioma lawyer can help you determine whether you have a valid case.
6. How much does it cost to file a lawsuit for mesothelioma caused by Opdivo?
Most mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning that they only get paid if you win your case. The cost of filing a lawsuit will depend on the individual lawyer and the complexity of your case.
7. Should I file a lawsuit for mesothelioma caused by Opdivo?
Whether or not to file a lawsuit is a personal decision that should be based on your individual circumstances. A mesothelioma lawyer can help you weigh the pros and cons of pursuing legal action.
Conclusion
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma after taking Opdivo, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a qualified mesothelioma lawyer to discuss your legal options and find out if you have a valid case. Remember, you have a right to hold the manufacturers of Opdivo accountable for their negligence and seek justice for the harm caused by their product.
Take Action Today
Don’t let the manufacturers of Opdivo get away with their negligence. Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today to get the compensation you deserve.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. You should consult with a qualified mesothelioma lawyer to discuss your legal options if you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma after taking Opdivo. The results of any individual case may vary depending on the specific facts and legal circumstances of that case.
