Does Multiple Sclerosis Drug Mitoxantrone Cause Cancer?

May 23,2016

New research reveals the multiple sclerosis drug mitoxantrone could be linked to an increased risk for certain cancers. The drug was first developed to treat certain cancers, but it has also been used to treat aggressive forms of MS that are unresponsive to other medications.

The study looked at MS patients who were on mitoxantrone from 1994 to 2007, and their medical histories through 2010. Of the 676 people included in the study, 5.5% were diagnosed with cancer after taking mitoxantrone. The cancers included breast cancer, colorectal cancer and myeloid leukemia. According to the study, the rate of leukemia is 10 times higher for mitoxantrone users than it is for the general public, and the rate of colorectal cancer is three times higher.

The multiple sclerosis drug’s link to acute leukemia has been a known side effect in the medical community for quite some time, but the new findings on colorectal and breast cancer suggest mitoxantrone could be more dangerous than was once thought.

“There is always a certain amount of risk when taking medications to treat an aggressive disease. Patients concerned about these side effects should consult with their doctor about their options,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured by a drug and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.