There are an estimated 21 million people in the United States diagnosed with diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many take prescription medication to control the condition and assist in regulating their blood sugar levels. One prescription drug that type II diabetics have been taking since its introduction to the public in 1999 is Actos. While it is intended to improve glucose control in adults, Actos has been linked with bladder cancer and heart failure.
Having diabetes is already a serious health concern, but having diabetes and another life-threatening illness as a result of your diabetic medication can only make matters worse. If you or a loved one has been prescribed Actos and suffered ill health effects as a result, you may be entitled to damages in a lawsuit. A lawyer can help you understand your rights if you suffered serious damages and can work toward recovering the compensation to which you are entitled.
Actos Lawsuit: Bladder Cancer
Actos was first introduced to the market in 1999 for treatment of type II diabetes. It works by helping control blood sugar levels through the introduction of pioglitazone, the active ingredient. Before it was introduced to the market, it, like every other prescription drug, underwent pre-market studies.
Animal studies found that the medication might increase risk of bladder cancer. Despite the link, the FDA approved Actos and undertook a 10-year epidemiological study.
A French study examined cancer rates among diabetics taking pioglitazone between 2006 and 2009 and others who were not taking this drug. The researchers found those who take Actos have a 22 percent higher risk of developing bladder cancer than those who are taking other diabetic drugs. As such, both France and Germany have told doctors to stop prescribing the medication. The European Medicines Agency is conducting its own study.
In an August of 2011 update published by the FDA, the agency stated that it approved new drug labels for pioglitazone-containing drugs, including Actos. The new labels come with a safety information warning that use of the drug for more than a year could be associated with increased bladder cancer risk.
Talk to an Actos lawyer about whether you may have a valid lawsuit if you developed bladder cancer as a result of taking this medication.
Other Possible Actos Side Effects
In addition to the development of bladder cancer, Actos might cause serious side effects like heart problems, macular edema, bone fractures, and liver problems.
Other potential side effects of taking Actos may include the following symptoms.
- low blood sugar.
- ovulation leading to pregnancy.
- headache.
- sinus infection.
- muscle pain.
- and, sore throat.
Speak with a Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has suffered serious side effects or complications as a result of taking Actos, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, loss of wages, and more. For help filing your lawsuit, understanding your rights as a victim and recovering damages, speak with an attorney.
At Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C., we know how traumatizing it can be when the medicine that is supposed to help you hurts you instead, and we’re ready to work hard to get you the compensation that you deserve. To set up a free case consultation, contact us today at 800-550-0000.
