Baycol FAQs - Information about Rhabdomyolysis and Other Baycol Injuries

Why is There a Baycol Recall?

Baycol was voluntarily recalled from the market because it has been linked to an extremely high occurrence of rhabdomyolysis, a normally non-fatal condition that is a known side effect of most statin drugs. Fatalities associated with Baycol injuries from rhabdomyolysis were uncharacteristically high.

Are There Any Alternatives to Baycol?

Yes. Baycol belongs to a class of drugs known as statins. There are many companies that manufacture this class of prescription drugs. Two popular statin drugs are Zocor (Merck Pharmaceuticals) and Lipitor (Pfizer Pharmaceuticals).

Are Baycol Injuries More Likely When Combined with Other Medications?

Yes. If you are taking Baycol and gemfibrozil (lowers triglycerides) concurrently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that you immediately stop taking Baycol and contact your doctor. Fibrates like gemfibrozil can interact with Baycol and increase the occurrence of rhabdomyolysis.

What Is Rhabdomyolysis?

Rhabdomyolysis occurs when muscle cells are damaged and their contents break down and enter the blood. Some contents of muscle cells become toxic when released into the blood, and damage to the kidneys may occur. Rhabdomyolysis is rarely fatal; recently, however, over thirty patients taking Baycol have died from injuries caused by severe Rhabdomyolysis.

How Do I Know If I Have Rhabdomyolysis?

Soreness in the joints, muscle aches and weakness are symptoms of rhabdomyolysis. Another important symptom is discoloration of urine. If you have been taking Baycol and have experienced these symptoms, the FDA recommends that you immediately stop taking Baycol and contact your physician. Contact a Baycol attorney for legal guidance.

What Happens When I Stop Taking Baycol?

Your cholesterol levels may increase to your pre-Baycol levels. Contact your physician to determine the best method of treatment.

Where Can I Find Official Baycol Recall Information?

The Food and Drug Administration has an information page regarding the recent voluntary recall of Baycol.

What If I Have Already Suffered Baycol Injuries?

First, follow the advice of your doctor on how to recover from your injuries. Second, you may want to contact a Baycol attorney about receiving compensation for you injuries.

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