Dangerous Drug Attorney

Actos and Bladder Cancer

The Taylor Law Firm is investigating reports of complications associated with Actos.  Prescribed for the treatment of Type-2 diabetes, the drug Actos has recently come under investigation by a number of different organizations as a possible cause of bladder cancer.  Sales have been completely discontinued and the drug has been pulled from the shelves by the governments of France and Germany, due to concern for the safety of their citizens.

Actos is prescribed to maintain proper levels of sugar.  It prevents the liver from producing more sugar than is necessary and allows more efficient use of the insulin that is made in the body.  Actos is usually prescribed in combination with changes in dietary habits.

Actos comes with a series of health warnings that mainly address the possibility of heart failure and lactic acidosis.  There is no specific mention of bladder cancer or diabetic macular edema in the warnings.

Studies Indicate a Link Between Actos and Bladder Cancer

In 2007 a major study was concluded that compared health risks in persons taking either Actos or another diabetes drug Avandia.  This study was done using patients on Medicare and concluded that the side effects that had been linked to Avandia, primarily heart failure, cardiovascular disease and stroke, did not seem to be present in persons who had been taking Actos.  In May 2011, however, new evidence came out supporting the link between Actos and the development of bladder cancer.

Independent European Studies

In June 2011 an official report from a scientific study group in Europe found that of the 155,000 patients monitored approximately one fifth of those developing bladder cancer had been taking the drug Actos.  This resulted in a nationwide recall and banning of the medication in both France and Germany.  the FDA also finished a study that showed a disproportionate risk for those patients using Actos versus Avandia or other medications for develpment of bladder cancer.  The FDA, however, has not asked that this warning be included on the label of Actos.  the risk seems to be considerably higher for those that take the drug at higher cumulative doses and for longer periods of time.  Possible signs or symptoms of Actos-related bladder cancer may include:

- Pain during urination

- Pain in the back or lower abdomen

- Feeling a need to urinate without results

In June of 2011, perhaps responding to the European studies, the FDA issued a report for physicians which indicated a potential link between Actos and bladder cancer.  Although Actos continues to remain on the shelves of drug stores in the United States, the drug is under a long-term observational study by the FDA.  The FDA is currently analyzing the clinical data regarding Actos to determine whether further regulatory action, such as an Actos recall, is warranted.

If you've been hurt after using Actos or another dangerous drug, please contact the Taylor Law Firm, LLC right away.  Pascagoula dangerous drug attorney, Jerry Taylor has the experience and confidence needed to force large drug manufacturers to take accountability.

To learn more about the Taylor Law Firm, LLC and how we can help you pursue your dangerous drug lawsuit, please call or e-mail us today to schedule a free consultation.  We welcome clients from Mississippi, Alabama & Florida including Pensacola, Pascagoula, Mobile & Gulfport.