Diabetes Drug Actos and Bladder Cancer

Actos is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. In recent years it has become more popular because its competitor, Avandia, was taken off the market due to an increased risk of heart failure. Now, serious questions are being raised about the side effects of Actos as well.

Several studies have found that Actos also causes an increased risk of both bone fractures and heart attacks. What is also very concerning is that the Journal of American Medicine and the FDA are both warning that taking Actos for more than one year can carry a much higher risk of developing Bladder Cancer. This has prompted Germany and France to pull the drug from the market while further testing is performed. On June 15, 2011, the FDA issued an “urgent health warning” after a review of studies showing up to a 40% increased risk of developing Bladder Cancer after a patient had been on Actos for more than a year. The FDA has not yet taken the additional step of pulling the product from the market and it is still available for purchase. However, the medication is subject to further review and is being closely monitored by the FDA.

Actos, especially when prescribed long term, has the potential to do much greater harm than good. Bladder Cancer is a debilitating, life-threatening disease, yet Actos is still readily available. Potential lawsuits are being investigated across the country to help victims of Actos. It is important that the manufactures of these dangerous drugs are held liable and victims are compensated for their incredible pain and suffering.

The Law firm of Rudolph F.X. Migliore, P.C. is now accepting Actos Bladder Cancer cases. With over three decades of experience, the firm is well positioned to help victims of Actos. The firm works with nationally-recognized co-council to reach major verdicts while providing local, personalized service. If you or a loved one has taken Actos and has developed Bladder Cancer, or if you need further information, contact our office at 631-543-3663 or visit our website at migliorelaw.com .