Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) is an uncommon illness that affects the eyes of thyroid patients. Tepezza is a TED drug that was authorized by the FDA in 2020. Although Tepezza has assisted many patients in managing their disease, it has also been associated with a variety of adverse effects, including hearing loss.
If you or a loved one has experienced hearing loss after taking Tepezza, you may be wondering what legal options are available to you. Filing a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit could help you recover compensation for your damages, such as medical expenses and lost wages.
As of February 2023, there are 10 complaints filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois alone. With more and more people realizing that their hearing loss might have been caused by Tepezza, this number is expected to reach over 100 by the end of this year, according to an update posted on AboutLawsuits.com.
However, the legal process can be complex, and it’s important to have a clear understanding of your rights and options before taking action. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of what you need to know about filing a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit, including how to determine if you have a case, choosing a lawyer, and the lawsuit process.
Do You Have a Case?
Determining whether or not you have a case for a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit can be a complex and daunting process. While you may suspect that your hearing loss was caused by the drug, it is essential to determine if you have a valid legal claim.
The first step in determining if you have a case is to consult with a qualified attorney experienced in handling Tepezza hearing loss cases. Your case can be evaluated by an attorney to see if you have a legal claim against the manufacturer.
Your attorney will likely ask you to provide information about your medical history, the circumstances surrounding your use of Tepezza, and any prior hearing issues you may have had. Your attorney may also request copies of your medical records, including audiology reports and other relevant documentation.
If your attorney believes that you have a strong case, you may be able to sue the drug manufacturer. Your attorney can guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit, including identifying the appropriate court, drafting the necessary documents, and serving the defendant.
Choosing a Lawyer
If you believe you have a case, the next step is to find a qualified and experienced lawyer to represent you. When choosing a lawyer for your Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit, there are a few factors to consider:
- Experience: Look for a lawyer who has experience handling pharmaceutical lawsuits, specifically those related to hearing loss caused by Tepezza. It’s also critical to choose a lawyer with a track record of success in these sorts of lawsuits.
- Resources: Your lawyer should have the resources necessary to handle your case effectively. This may include access to medical experts who can provide testimony, as well as a staff to handle the administrative side of the case.
- Communication: Your lawyer should be someone you feel comfortable communicating with and who will keep you informed throughout the process. It’s important to find a lawyer who is responsive to your questions and concerns.
- Contingency fee: Many pharmaceutical lawsuit lawyers work on a contingency fee When selecting a lawyer, make sure you discuss this with them and understand their fee structure.
It’s important to take the time to find a lawyer who is the right fit for you and your case. Don’t be afraid to schedule consultations with multiple lawyers to compare their experience, resources, and communication style before making a decision.
The Lawsuit Process
If you have decided to pursue legal action and have hired a lawyer, it’s important to understand the lawsuit process for Tepezza hearing loss cases.
- Pre-filing investigation: Before filing a lawsuit, your lawyer will conduct an investigation to gather evidence, such as medical records, relevant medical research data, and expert opinions, to establish a strong case against the manufacturer.
- In 2022, the Department of Ophthalmology of Byers Eye Institute conducted a study regarding the connection between hearing loss and Tepezza, and it found that hearing loss is a concerning side effect among patients who are being administered teprotumumab (Tepezza).
- Filing the complaint: Once the investigation is complete, your lawyer will file a complaint in court, stating the facts of the case, including how you were harmed by Tepezza and why the manufacturer is liable.
- Discovery: After the complaint is filed, both parties engage in the discovery process, where they exchange information and evidence related to the case. These might include depositions, written inquiries, and documentation requests.
- Motions: During the discovery process, either party may file a motion, asking the court to rule on a specific legal issue, such as whether certain evidence should be admitted or whether the case should be dismissed.
- Settlement negotiations: At any point during the lawsuit process, the parties may engage in settlement negotiations to try to reach a resolution without going to trial.
- Trial: If the lawsuit does not settle, it will be tried in front of a judge or jury, with both sides presenting evidence and arguments.
- Verdict: After the trial, the judge or jury will render a verdict in either the favor of the plaintiff (you) or the defendant (the Tepezza manufacturer).
Additionally, it’s important to note that the outcome of a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit is not guaranteed. Although there have been successful cases, each case is distinct, and the outcome will be determined by the facts and evidence presented in your case.
Conclusion
If you have suffered from hearing loss or other hearing-related side effects after taking Tepezza, it is important to speak with your doctor and contact a qualified attorney as soon as possible.
You may hold the manufacturer accountable for any harm the drug may have caused by filing a lawsuit, which can aid you in getting the compensation you deserve. You can get the best results for your case by being aware of the legal procedure and working with a knowledgeable lawyer.
