New Bladder Cancer Warning for Diabetes Drug Actos
Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning stating that individuals using the drug Actos (real name “pioglitazone”) for over one year could be exposed to heightened risk of bladder cancer. Back in June, the FDA announced that information regarding the increased danger was to be put on the drug’s Warnings and Precautions label (as well as on the warning label for any other drugs containing the substance). Revisions were also made to all patient guides pertaining to the drug, said the agency.
The drug is used by adults suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus to help regulate blood sugar levels. During the period of January 2010 to October 2010, the FDA reported around 2.3 million individuals receiving prescriptions for a product that contained pioglitazone. The drug is sold under the one ingredient brand Actos, but also in tandem with others such as glimepiride (Duetact) and metformin (Actoplus Met, Actoplus Met XR).
The updated safety data is in response to the FDA’s findings in ongoing evaluations, which indicated the heightened risk of Actos bladder cancer as related to those using the product for sustained periods of time and in the significant doses. The agency said it will continue to investigate the correlation.
Consumers using Actos, or any products containing the drug, should immediately consult their health care provider regarding the risks and treatment. In September, dozens of people joined to file a class action lawsuit against Actos drug maker Takeda for failing to properly research their products or caution regarding potential usage hazards. If you’ve been injured by Actos, or any drug containing pioglitazone, contact an experienced Actos bladder cancer attorney to discuss your case.
Michael Monheit is the managing lawyer at Monheit Law, outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He has practiced law since 1989. Michael Monheit was the managing attorney of the law offices of Herbert Monheit — now Silverman and Fodera — a firm... Michael Monheit→