Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro, LLP is currently pursuing legal cases on behalf of individuals and families harmed by Oxbryta (voxelotor) — a prescription drug intended to treat sickle cell anemia. In September 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that Pfizer issued a voluntary recall of Oxbryta after clinical data revealed an increased risk of vaso-occlusion crisis events and death among users.
Oxbryta is a medication originally developed by Global Blood Therapeutics (GBT) and later acquired by Pfizer, Inc. It was fast-tracked for FDA approval in 2019 for treating sickle cell disease (SCD) in adults and children 12 years and older. By 2021, the approval was expanded to include children ages 4 to 11.
The drug was intended to work by preventing red blood cells from sickling, improving oxygen delivery, and reducing the frequency of painful vaso-occlusive episodes. However, new data from Pfizer’s ongoing clinical trials has shown that Oxbryta may increase the very complications it was designed to prevent.
On September 26, 2024, the FDA announced the voluntary recall of Oxbryta after Pfizer revealed serious concerns about the drug’s safety profile. In a public statement, Pfizer acknowledged that:
“Recent data indicate the benefit of Oxbryta does not outweigh the risks for the sickle cell patient population.”
Clinical findings showed that patients taking Oxbryta had higher rates of vaso-occlusion crisis events and more deaths compared to those in the placebo group.
A vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) is a painful and often dangerous event in sickle cell patients where misshaped red blood cells block blood flow, depriving tissues of oxygen. VOCs are one of the most common and severe complications of sickle cell disease.
Sudden, moderate to severe pain in the chest, arms, legs, or back
Swelling in hands and feet (especially in children)
Shortness of breath
Fever (in some cases)
Risk of organ damage, stroke, or acute chest syndrome
Sickle cell anemia affects every system in the body. Patients may suffer from:
Delayed growth and puberty
Chronic pain and fatigue
Infections and immune suppression
Vision loss or eye damage
Organ failure (kidneys, liver, heart)
Strokes or silent brain injuries
Gallstones and joint damage
Pregnancy complications
Oxbryta was promoted as a solution to many of these problems. Now, after the recall, many patients and families are questioning whether they were misled or inadequately warned.
If you or a loved one has experienced complications from Oxbryta, don’t wait to seek legal help.
Contact Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro today for a FREE consultation.
Call (800) 675-8556 or contact us online to get started.
Lawsuits being considered against Pfizer and Global Blood Therapeutics allege that:
The manufacturers failed to warn doctors and patients about the risks of increased VOCs and death
Oxbryta was pushed through the FDA’s accelerated approval process without adequate long-term data
Post-market surveillance was insufficient despite early red flags
The companies prioritized commercial success over patient safety
If you experienced complications or lost a loved one while taking Oxbryta, you have the right to seek legal counsel and hold the manufacturer accountable.
You may be eligible for legal action if:
You or a loved one was prescribed Oxbryta for sickle cell anemia
You suffered vaso-occlusive crisis events, organ damage, or death linked to the medication
You required emergency care or hospitalization
A family member died while taking Oxbryta
You have medical documentation confirming your diagnosis and treatment
If your case is successful, you may be entitled to recover damages for:
Medical expenses (hospital stays, emergency care, long-term treatment)
Loss of income or ability to work
Pain and suffering
Loss of quality of life
Wrongful death damages (funeral costs, loss of companionship)
Punitive damages, if corporate negligence is proven
At Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro, LLP, we are committed to helping patients and families harmed by dangerous pharmaceutical products. Our firm has a long track record of success in mass tort and product liability cases, and we are actively pursuing Oxbryta-related claims across the country.
What you can expect when you work with us:
Dedicated attorneys with deep experience in drug injury cases
Compassionate support and clear guidance throughout the legal process
Access to leading medical experts and clinical research
No out-of-pocket fees — you only pay if we win
If you believe Oxbryta may have contributed to your injury or a loved one’s death:
Gather medical records, prescriptions, and hospital discharge summaries
Write down your symptoms, timeline, and complications
Contact SSKB for a free case review
Time is limited. Legal deadlines apply, and it’s critical to act quickly to protect your rights.
What is the current status of Oxbryta on the market?
Pfizer issued a voluntary recall in September 2024. Patients are urged to speak with their doctors immediately.
Can I file a claim on behalf of a family member who passed away?
Yes. Surviving family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim.
Is this part of a class action?
Not at this time. Oxbryta cases are being filed as individual product liability claims.
What if my child was harmed by the drug?
You can file a claim on behalf of your child. Our team will assist you with guardianship and documentation requirements.
If you or your loved one suffered from severe complications or death while using Oxbryta, you are not alone. Let Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro, LLP help you fight for justice and the compensation you deserve.
Call now or fill out our secure online form to schedule your free consultation with an experienced drug injury attorney.