Actos, a drug prescribed to help control blood sugar levels in those with Type 2 diabetes, has been linked to a number of catastrophic health complications including bladder cancer. The FDA has announced that use of Actos for more than one year may be associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer and death.
Actos was initially approved by the FDA in 1999. However, it wasn’t until 2011 that the FDA added a warning to the drug about an increased risk of bladder cancer. In fact, research by the Administration found use Actos for two years or more led to a 40 percent increased risk of bladder cancer.
The manufacturer of Actos, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, agreed to pay $2.4 billion to settle suits over cancer risk. According to the New York Times, the settlement is one of the largest product-liability settlements in the pharmaceutical industry.
As of April 2015, about 9,000 lawsuits had been filed against Takeda, alleging hidden cancer risks. If you’ve taken Actos, it’s important to be aware of the side effects. Symptoms of bladder cancer include painful urination, bloody urine, a constant and urgent need to urinate, and back or lower abdomen pain. If you have immediate concerns, please consult your physician.
At Foster & Houston, we’ve been helping victims of bladder cancer caused by Actos for years. If you or a loved one has taken Actos, it’s important to be aware of your rights. You can inquire about a potential Actos lawsuit by calling (800) 943-3071 or by visiting our website.
Sources: The New York Times & The FDA
Additional Actos Resources:
- Blog: New Report Supports Claim That Actos Raises Bladder Cancer Risk
- Blog: $2.2 Billion Offered to Settle Actos Lawsuits
- How to Know if You Have an Actos Case