Ketek Antibiotic Drug Linked to Liver Failure and Death

Ketek was approved by the FDA for use in sinusitis, bronchitus, and pneumonia. There is growing evidence that the key safety study was flawed. The doctor, who treated most patients in the study, is now in Federal prison, pleading quilty to defrauding Adventists and others. The doctor, who treated the third most patients, was on probation at the time with the state medical board for gross negligence and failure to keep adequate records. After police responded to his home, on a domestic violence call, found the doctor at home hiding a bag of cocaine in his underwear and holding a loaded semiautomatic gun. A number of people have died after taking Ketek. This drug company has submitted to the FDA that they should be allowed to sell this drug for children's ear infections and tonsolitis! Ketek has about $193 million in sales each year.

Last week the General Accountability Office said the FDA is not doing a good job when it comes to drug safety. Over 100,000 people die each year in this country due to the side effects of properly prescribed prescription drugs. 50% of liver transplants are due to the side effects of prescription drugs and the other 50% are due to acetaminophen (Tylenol).

See my January 28, 2005, posting - How to Listen to The Debra Ray Show, Healthy Talk Radio. Debra Ray's radio and streaming audio health show has been bringing researched health information to listeners since 1982.