The FDA has recently issued a black box warning label for any tumor necrosis factor a, TNFa, blockers.

The consumption of these drugs has been associated with the increased risk of developing Legionella as well as Listeria infections. Reports stated that between the years of 1999 and 2010, 80 people developed Legionella and 14 of those patients passed away due to the severity of the disease.

Previous risks already connected to the TNFa blockers include the risk for tuberculosis, histoplasmosis and hepatitis B. Additional information was provided by the FDA regarding this medication which included the knowledge that TNFa blockers can decrease a patient's immune system which can lower the ability to fight off infection. 

Several prescription drugs and other agents have been given black box warning labels by the FDA. Gadolinium-based contrast agents were given a black box warning label by the FDA in 2007. This labeling is largely due to the development of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in patients with kidney disease. If you have nephrogenic systemic fibrosis as a result of being administered a gadolinium-based agent, please contact the NSF attorneys of Williams Kherkher by calling 800-761-3187 today.