Merck & Co. Offers Transparency in Ongoing Review of Diabetes Treatments

In the wake of U.S. regulators opening a formal investigation regarding the safety of various diabetes medications several months ago, the American Diabetes Association announced this week that they will be conducting an independent review of data about the safety of diabetes treatments, including Merck & Co.'s Januvia.

Januvia, a popular type-2 diabetes medication, is one of several diabetes drugs containing sitagliptin, a member of the incretin mimetic drug class. Since the release of incretin mimetic diabetes medications, an increasing number of adverse health events and several studies have linked the drugs to serious side effects, including the development of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.

"We welcome opportunities to discuss the data that support the safety profile of sitagliptin in the treatment of adults with type-2 diabetes. Type-2 diabetes is a disease with serious consequences if left untreated," said Merck & Co.'s Chief Medical Officer.

Merck's willingness to aid in safety review efforts come after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced this March that growing evidence between top-selling diabetes medications and pancreatic disease warranted further investigation. Researches and analysts will attempt to find definitive scientific evidence linking sitagliptin and other diabetes medications to the development of pancreatic cancer.

Reviews conducted by the FDA and American Diabetes Association highlight the fact that pharmaceutical companies have difficulties creating diabetes medications that provide effective treatment without serious side effects. Although the search for safe and effective treatment may be no easy feat, pharmaceutical giants ultimately have the responsibility to ensure that the drugs they put onto the market are safe for consumers before they reach consumers' hands. If you or your loved one has experienced adverse side effects after taking a type-2 diabetes medication, including Merck's Januvia, you may be eligible to recover monetary compensation for the damages you suffered. Allow a proven California defective drug lawyer from The Senators Firm to review your situation, inform you of your rights, and explain the ways in which we may be able to assist you in filing a claim. Contact our firm today.