Januvia® Pancreatic Cancer Lawsuit

Intended for use in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, Januvia (generic: sitagliptin) helps to regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels in patients who are otherwise incapable of doing so on their own. Of significant concern, however, are recent studies that suggest a possible link between Januvia treatment and the development of serious complications. According to researchers, patients using Januvia may increase their risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after taking Januvia, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.

Januvia Pancreatic Cancer Lawsuit Overview

Januvia was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approximately six years ago in 2006. Shortly after gaining the FDA’s approval, the Merck product was released into interstate commerce on October 16, 2006. Upon its release, Januvia was indicated to assist in the regulation of blood sugar levels in those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Sitagliptin, the active ingredient found in Januvia, is in a class of medications known as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. As a DPP-4 inhibitor, sitagliptin work to increase the amount of certain natural substances that lower blood sugar when it is high. Subsequently, by inhibiting the production of dipeptidyl peptidase-4, sitagliptin is able to increase the secretion of insulin and suppress the release of glucagon by the pancreas. This drives blood glucose levels towards normal.

While Januvia has demonstrated a unique propensity for the regulation of blood sugar levels in diabetic patients, studies suggest it may not exhibit a favorable risk/benefit profile. According to recent studies, Januvia treatment may coincide with the development of catastrophic complications. While remaining ambiguous, the effect sitagliptin has on the pancreas may cause significant harm. Patients who use Januvia may increase their risk of developing pancreatic cancer, along with any corresponding complications that may ensue. Due to the sever nature of this condition, patients may contact a lawyer at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP for a free case evaluation regarding their potential Januvia pancreatic cancer lawsuit.

Pancreatic Cancer

As its name suggests, pancreatic cancer begins in the tissues of the pancreas. Subsequently, it is the fourth most common cause of cancer-related deaths across the globe. Pancreatic cancer often has a poor prognosis, even when diagnosed early. The cancerous cells typically spread rapidly and it is seldom detected in its early stages, which is a major reason why it’s a leading cause of cancer death. Signs and symptoms may not appear until pancreatic cancer is quite advanced and surgical removal isn’t possible. However, as the condition progresses, it may cause the following complications:

  • Jaundice
  • Pain
  • Bowel obstruction
  • Weight loss

Pancreatic cancer often accompanied by a poor prognosis: for all stages combined, the one and five year relative survival rates are 25% and 6%, respectively. However, for local disease, the five year survival rate is approximately 20% while the median survival for locally advanced and for metastatic disease, which collectively represent over 80% of individuals, is about 10 and 6 months respectively.

Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer often don’t occur until the disease is advanced. When signs and symptoms do appear, they may include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Chills
  • Clammy skin
  • Fatty stools
  • Fever
  • Mild jaundice
  • Nausea
  • Sweating
  • Weakness
  • Weight loss
  • Vomiting

Januvia Pancreatic Cancer Study

According to a recent study conducted at UCLA, Januvia may be linked to a significantly increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Researchers from the Larry L. Hillblom Islet Research Center at UCLA examined the FDA’s database for adverse events reported between 2004 and 2009 among patients using the drug sitagliptin. Their collective research acknowledged that patients who took sitagliptin were more likely to have developed pancreatic cancer than those who were treated with the other therapies. Accordingly, there as a 2.7-fold higher rate of pancreatic cancer in patients on sitagliptin, compared with the other therapies.

Do I Have a Januvia Pancreatic Cancer 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 Januvia pancreatic cancer lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after taking Januvia, 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.