A recent study showed that an extract from fresh garlic may help protect the liver form acetaminophen toxicity. Acetaminophen toxicity, the result of the ingestion of too much acetaminophen, is a dangerous condition that can cause acute liver failure and death. Acetaminophen, an over the counter drug, is one of the most commonly used drugs in the United States today. The most common brand name for the drug is Tylenol.
The study found that garlic contains metabolites, trace elements, amino acids, and proteins which protect the hepatocytes, the main functional cells of the liver, from dangerous toxins. The researchers concluded that garlic extracts are a natural and easy way to protect against a number of liver diseases.
The Food and Drug Administration has warned consumers about the potential for serious health risks associated with acetaminophen toxicity and has asked drug makers to update their warning labels to include warnings for potential liver damage. Johnson & Johnson, the manufacture of Tylenol, has lowered the maximum daily dose of Extra Strength Tylenol potentially out of concern for accidental acetaminophen overdose that can lead to liver problems.
Numerous lawsuits allege that the manufactures of Tylenol have known for years about the risks associated with acetaminophen and have failed to warn consumers. As a result, federal court cases have been consolidated in a multi-district litigation (MDL) in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. MDLs are centralized locations for all federal cases involving common cases regardless of the jurisdiction in which a case was originally filed. MDLs are created when consolidation would improve efficiency and conserve judicial resources. They can also allow plaintiffs to pool their resources when taking on large corporations.
The attorneys at Lopez McHugh have earned an excellent reputation for drug and device litigation, have been involved in many MDLs, and have frequently held leadership positions in these complex lawsuits. If you believe you or a loved one has suffered liver failure from Tylenol with acetaminophen, contact Lopez McHugh for a free consultation. Consult a doctor if you have any health concerns.
