Baycol was initially approved in the U.S. in 1997 and is a member of a class of cholesterol lowering drugs that are commonly referred to as "statins." Statins lower cholesterol levels by blocking a specific enzyme in the body that is involved in the synthesis of cholesterol. While all statins have been associated with rare reports of Rhabdomyolysis, fatal Rhabdomyolysis has been reported more frequently when the patient was using Baycol.

2. What should I do if I’m taking Baycol?

Unless you are experiencing severe side effects of the drug, do not discontinue your medication until you see your physician. At that time, you should discuss alternative medications. If you are taking Baycol and have experienced any side effects such as those related to Rhabdomyolysis, you should also contact an attorney as soon as possible.

3. What is Rhabdomyolysis?

Rhabdomyolysis is a condition that results in muscle cell breakdown and release of the contents of muscle cells into the bloodstream. The pain may involve specific areas of the body or be a general pain throughout the body. Most often the calves and lower back are the area of the most pain. Occasionally, however, some patients report no symptoms at all. In rare cases the muscle injury is so severe that patients develop renal failure, and other organ failure, which can be fatal.

4. What are the High Risk Groups?

The greatest risk exists with Baycol users who take it in combination with the drug, Gemfibrozil. The two drugs alter blood fats in different ways. Other high risk groups include elderly patients and patients who were taking high doses of Baycol.

5. How do I know if I am experiencing the side effects of Rhabdomyolysis?

Patients who develop Rhabdomyolysis often have muscle aches involving their calves, back, or their entire body. The pain may be accompanied by weakness, fever, nausea, vomiting, and passing of dark urine.

6. What is Baycol used for?

Baycol is a cholesterol-lowering drug known as a "statin". It is prescribed to reduce cholesterol and the risk of heart disease.

7. Are there any alternatives to Baycol?

Yes, there are 5 other statins currently available in the U.S. They are Lipitor, Lescol, Mevacor, Pravachol, and Zocor. There are also other drugs approved for lowering cholesterol that are not statin drugs. You should consult your physician to determine if any of these options will work for you.

8. Do the other statins have the same safety concerns as Baycol?

All statins have been associated with Rhabdomyolysis; however, cases of fatal Rhabdomyolysis in association with Baycol use have been reported much more frequently than other approved statins.

9. What is a Statin?

Statins lower cholesterol levels by blocking a specific enzyme in the body that is involved in making cholesterol.

10. What type of attorney should I contact in a case such as this?

You should contact an attorney with experience in products litigation.