The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has initiated a review of the diabetes drug Actos after initial studies generated data suggesting that the drug may be linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer in patients.
Actos is one of two medications on the market approved for controlling blood sugar in diabetes patients. The data prompting the FDA to conduct their review was generated from a ten-year study conducted by the drug’s manufacturer, Takeda Pharmaceuticals. While initial results from the study did not find an overall link between the use of Actos and the development of bladder cancer, they did show a potential increased risk in patients that take the drug for extended periods of time or in high dosages.
This news is particularly disconcerting for diabetes patients since serious pharmaceutical injuries have already been linked to Avandia, the only other alternative for controlling blood sugar. Over the past five years, the FDA has received numerous reports suggesting that Avandia may lead to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
This past July, the FDA established an advisory committee to determine whether Avandia should be removed from the market. In a split decision, the panel recommended that the drug remain on the market. However, there was a narrow margin for the vote in favor of Avandia: 20 out of 33 members voted to keep the drug on the market with enhanced restrictions and warnings, while 12 members voted for the drug to be removed from the market.
The FDA is currently reviewing data on Actos to determine if any action should be taken. Currently, officials have advised patients to consult their physician before stopping use of the drug.
If you have an Actos or Avandia claim in the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma area, please contact the defective drug attorneys at Stipe Injury Law today to schedule your free initial consultation.
