• 28
  • February
    2011

In a previous post, we noted a new round of lawsuits filed against Roche Holding AG, because of negative side effects stemming from use of the popular acne medication Accutane. In particular, it is now well known that using this drug can, in some cases, cause inflammatory bowel disease.

Last week, several Hollywood stars testified in a trial against Roche on behalf of an actor who claims his career was spoiled when he developed inflammatory bowel disease as a result of using Accutane.

The actor, James Greenblatt, better known as James Marshall, apparently got his first big acting job on the television series Twin Peaks, and later co-starred in A Few Good Men. From there his career took off and became very busy.

But according to Greenblatt's attorney, his career was cut short due to the removal of his colon, necessary because using Accutane caused him to develop inflammatory bowel disease.

Martin Sheen, Brian Dennehy, Rob Reiner, Esai Morales, and Rick Nicita are among the actors who will testify at Greenblatt's trial. According to sources, they will be testifying to the actor's potential, and what type of career he may have had if he hadn't developed inflammatory bowel disease.

Two other Plaintiff's, Gillian Gaghan and Kelley Andrews, are joining in Greenblatt's trial.

The trial is one among many suits that have been brought against Roche Holding AG for its failure to adequately warn patients of the risks of using Accutane.

Whether in the form of Crohn's disease of ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease can be embarrassing and potentially life-changing. Symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease may include, diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, bleeding, cramping, and pain.

Source: The Street, "Roche vs. Hollywood Stars in Accutane Trial," 24 Feb 2011.