Janssen Warns Its Drug Spravato Can Cause Respiratory Depression and Respiratory Arrest
On October 18, 2023, the manufacturer of Spravato (Janssen Pharmaceuticals) added warnings to its label telling U.S. consumers for the first time that its drug could cause respiratory depression and respiratory arrest. If improperly treated, these conditions can be deadly.
Spravato is a nasal spray used to treat depression. The main ingredient in Spravato – esketamine – is derived from the anesthetic ketamine. In other countries, Janssen warned that the use of eskatamine and ketamine could cause respiratory depression. Janssen, however, failed to warn patients in the United States of Spravato’s risk of respiratory depression until October 2023 – only after receiving dozens of reports of respiratory depression, including incidents of respiratory arrest.
Patients that have been hospitalized or died after suffering respiratory depression or respiratory arrest should contact Burg Simpson’s dangerous drug attorneys right away to determine if they have a Spravato injury lawsuit. Contact us today by calling 888-895-2080 or filling out our Free Case Evaluation Form.
What is Spravato and How is it Administered?
Spravato is a nasal spray prescribed to patients suffering from treatment resistant depression. Spravato is not to be used at home. Rather, the drug must only be administered under the direct supervision of a healthcare provider. Patients taking Spravato are to be monitored for at least two hours after receiving a dose; however, it was not until October 2023 that Janssen informed patients and doctors to watch for signs of respiratory depression and respiratory arrest.
What is Respiratory Depression and Respiratory Arrest?
Respiratory depression is a condition where breathing can become slow, difficult, and/or ineffective at delivering oxygen to the body. This can lead to a buildup of carbon dioxide in the blood, which can cause symptoms that include headaches, confusion, and blue coloration to the skin. If left untreated, a patient may stop breathing (respiratory arrest) and die.
What Should Spravato-injury Victims Do?
After an injury or death, it is critical to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your legal rights are protected. Burg Simpson’s compassionate team of Spravato injury lawyers are ready to help. Call us or complete a Free Case Evaluation Form today. Let us focus on your legal claims while you focus on your health and your family.
