Actos (Pioglitazone)
The United States Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning about the diabetes drug pioglitazone, marketed as Actos[1]. This information is based on the FDA's review of data from a planned five-year interim analysis of an ongoing ten-year study. The FDA found that patients who used Actos over time and with high doses had an increased risk of serious injury from Bladder Cancer. European drug regulators have issued warnings and in some cases even withdrawn the drug from the market. Actos remains available by prescription in the United States.
Pioglitazone facts:
- Sold under the brand name Actos
- Sold in combination with metformin as Actoplus Met and Actoplus Met XR
- Also sold in combination with glimepiride as Duetact
- Used to control blood sugar in combination with diet and exercise in adults with type 2 diabetes
Bladder Cancer and FDA Recommendations
The data from the study suggests that patients who used pioglitazone for the longest and with the highest cumulative dose of the drug had an increased risk of bladder cancer. A study conducted in France also suggests this link, and based on the results of that study, France has suspended use of the drug. Germany has recommended that physicians refrain from starting new patients on this treatment.
Kansas City Actos Side Effects Lawyers
The FDA recommends that healthcare professionals not use this drug in patients who already have bladder cancer or who have a prior history of bladder cancer. They suggest that the benefits of controlling blood sugar be weighed against the unknown risk of cancer recurrence in these patients. The FDA plans to continue to evaluate data as the ten-year study goes on and will update the public as information becomes available.
If you are currently taking Actos, discuss this information with your doctor. Do not ever stop taking any medication until you have discussed the risks and benefits with your health care provider.
If you or your loved one has been injured by Actos and have been diagnosed with bladder cancer, the manufacturer may have failed in its duty to design, make, inspect and label the product appropriately.
At Brown & Crouppen our experienced team of defective drug lawyers provide tough, aggressive representation for victims and their families. Brown & Crouppen can help you make informed decisions about your legal rights, so please call Brown & Crouppen at Toll Free: 1-888-891-2022 for your free legal consultation or save time with our online Contact Form.
[1] http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm259150.htm
