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Pathological gambling in Parkinson’s disease patients
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Pathological gambling in Parkinson’s disease patients

23 April 2009

The product liability team at law firm Leigh Day & Co is investigating claims on behalf of claimants who have developed pathological gambling habits after taking Cabaser (Cabergoline) and Requip (Ropinirole).

Cabaser and Requip

Cabaser and Requip are types of medicines called dopamine agonists, and are often prescribed to people suffering from Parkinson's disease. The drugs have been linked to a range of adverse side-effects including pathological gambling and hypersexuality.

Our clients allege that they were not warned about the serious side-effects caused by Cabaser and Requip and are now investigating claims for compensation from the distributors of the drug in the UK.

Leigh Day & Co partner Bozena Michalowska-Howells is co-ordinating the claims with solicitor Jill Paterson who said:

“Our clients allege that the effect the gambling has had on their lives has been nothing short of devastating. Already faced with difficulties following their diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, they claim that their lives have been turned upside down by abnormal patterns of behaviour which they could neither explain nor control.

Many of our clients allege they have accrued significant debts as a result of their gambling, with some even forced to sell their homes in order to remain solvent.  They also claim the side effects have had an adverse impact on their personal lives, as well as upon the lives of their loved ones.”

If you are concerned that you or a member of your family may have been affected by Cabaser or Requip, we suggest that you consult your GP or neurologist as soon as possible, or contact the Medical and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency for guidance and advice.

For a free initial consultation about the prospects of bringing a legal claim in this regard, please contact Jill Paterson in our product liability department on 020 7650 1311.

Information was correct at time of publishing. See terms and conditions for further details.

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