Zelnorm FAQ
Q: What is Zelnorm?
A: Zelnorm’s generic name is tegaserod maleate. Designed to treat constipation associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it works by elevating the effect of serotonin on the intestines. This allows stool to move through the intestines more easily.
Q: Who makes Zelnorm, and when was it approved by the FDA?
A: Novartis Pharmaceuticals makes and sells Zelnorm, which won approval from the FDA in 2002.
Q: Did many women use Zelnorm?
A: Yes. More than 2 million prescriptions were written for it in 2005 alone. Novartis’ sales were $500 million per year before it was pulled at the FDA’s request.
Q: Is Zelnorm effective?
A: Not especially. In one study, only about 6% of patients taking Zelnorm saw improvement in their symptoms after three months, compared with those getting placebos.
Q: Why was Zelnorm taken off the market in March 2007?
A: The data from 29 clinical studies showed that people taking the drug were eight times more likely than those on a placebo to suffer a Zelnorm heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular side effect.
Q: What are Zelnorm’s side effects?
A: The above-stated cardiovascular problems, plus ischemic colitis, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, dizziness, migraine headache, stomach pain, back pain, joint pain and nausea.
Q: Has Novartis been sued by people who suffered Zelnorm side effects?
A: No Zelnorm lawsuits have been filed so far, but this may change. Zelnorm lawyers are currently meeting with former patients to discuss their injuries and whether they should file a Zelnorm lawsuit for compensation. The first Zelnorm lawsuit may be filed shortly.
