Once considered the pinnacle of diabetes treatment and regulation, Actos (pioglitazone) has recently become the subject of great concern in the healthcare community. Actos was developed to assist in the regulation of blood sugar levels in those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. However, recent evidence suggests that Actos may be responsible for catastrophic side effects. Patients receiving prolonged Actos treatment may significantly increase their risk of developing a number of hazardous complications, the worst of which is bladder cancer. Subsequently, researchers believe the potential mechanism for the association between Actos and cancer may be directly related to the pharmacodynamics of pioglitazone.

If you or a loved one has been injured by Actos, you should contact our lawyersimmediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.

Actos Bladder Cancer Overview

Takeda Pharmaceuticals, world renown Japanese pharmaceutical company, introduced Actos to the U.S. market on July 15, 1999. Following regulatory actions taken by the U.S. Food and Drug administration (FDA), Actos gained the Agency’s approval to be sold in America with the implications of regulating blood sugar levels in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. After gaining FDA approval, Actos became the most popular diabetes medication on the planet, seeing sales generate $4.8 billion in the last year alone.

Actos is indicated for the use in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, a condition in which the body is unable to utilize insulin properly, and therefore can’t regulate levels of sugar in the blood. Pioglitazone, the active ingredient in Actos, belongs to a group of drugs known as thiazolidinediones. As a thiazolidinedione, pioglitazone initiates an increase in the body’s sensitivity to insulin, a chemical that regulates levels of sugar in the blood. In doing so, those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes are better able to regulate their blood sugar levels.

Unfortunately, patients who receive Actos treatment may be subjected to catastrophic side effects. An influx of adverse events have recently caused Actos and cancer to become synonymous with one another. Those on an Actos regimen may significantly increase their risk of developing bladder cancer. Subsequently, researchers believe the potential mechanism for the association between Actos and cancer may be directly related to the pharmacodynamics of pioglitazone.

Actos Side Effects

The following is a list of side effects that may coincide with Actos treatment:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Actos macular edema
  • Swelling
  • Rapid weight gain
  • Chest pain
  • Ill feeling
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Fever
  • Dark urine

According to recent scientific literature, a potential link exists between Actos and cancer. More specifically, European healthcare officials believe that bladder cancer is a major side effect of Actos treatment.

Actos Bladder Cancer

European healthcare officials have recently provided the healthcare community with information that suggests a potential link between Actos and cancer. Furthermore, the French Medicines Agency (FMA) has officially banned the use of Actos in France, which suggests that the benefits of the diabetes medication are outweighed by the risks. The FMA believes that the potential link between Actos and cancer warrants the drastic actions that they have taken up to this point.

As the name suggests, bladder cancer is a form of cancer that affects the bladder. In most cases, it begins in the cells that line the inside of the bladder of older adults. The symptoms of Actos bladder cancer may include the following:

  • Blood in urine
  • Frequent urination
  • Painful urination
  • Urinary tract infection
  • Abdominal pain
  • Back pain

In early stages, Actos bladder cancer is readily and easily treatable. Most patients who catch it before it metastasizes experience a high success rate. However, if treatment is neglected, patients may be subjected to extreme pain and suffering that can ultimately end in death. Treatments include a number of surgical procedures to remove the cancerous cells, but if the cancer has spread, a patient may need to undergo exhausting chemotherapy, radiation therapy or biological therapy.

Do I Have an Actos Lawsuit?

The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Actos lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Actos, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.