Find out the Facts
The diabetes drug Avandia, manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, has been associated with a significantly higher incidence of heart attacks and death according to a major research analysis conducted by doctors at the Cleveland Clinic and reported May 21, 2007 in the New England Journal of Medicine. Avandia, generically rosiglizatone, was found to have a 43% greater risk of heart attack and a 64% greater risk of heart-related death.
Avandia was developed by GlaxoSmithKline for people suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus. Type 2 diabetes is also referred to as “adult-onset” diabetes and “non-insulin dependent” diabetes. It is caused when a person’s body does not make enough insulin, or when their body cannot respond appropriately to its insulin production.
Avandia was intended to lower blood sugar when used together with diet and exercise. Avandia is taken in tablet form in a starting dose of 4mg (once a day) or 2mg (twice a day). While it has been found to aid in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, it has been associated with certain side effects including congestive heart failure.
Avandia Maker Sued Over Heart Attack
“The widow and son of a Beaumont man are suing the maker of the popular diabetes drug Avandia, alleging it contributed to the man's death from a heart attack. Larry Alan Stanford, 60, died May 21, the same day a scientific analysis was published in the New England Journal of Medicine saying that Avandia was linked to a greater risk of heart attack and possibly death. His widow, Peggie Stanford, and son, Ryan Stanford, filed the lawsuit against GlaxoSmithKline PLC on Tuesday in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas.”
Associated Press, Forbes 6/20/07
Diabetes
Drugs to Receive Strongest Warning
The makers of diabetes drugs Avandia and Actos have agreed to add the most severe
warning to inform patients that the medications may increase the risk of heart
failure. The Food and Drug Administration said the so called “black box” warnings
are separate from concerns that Avandia may increase the risk of heart attacks.
A separate FDA review of Avandia and Actos side effects showed cases of significant
weight gain and build up of fluids, both risk factors for heat failure. AP,
The Washington Post 08/16/2007
One of the major side effects
Is congestive
heart failure. Congestive Heart failure is a serious condition in which the
heart is not pumping well enough. In late stages, the heart is unable to meet
the body's demand for oxygen. Heart failure is so named because the heart is
failing to pump efficiently, which often results in congestion in the lungs.
As a result, the
heart tries to work harder,
which only makes the problem worse.
Heart failure symptoms include
- Chest pain
- Swelling of the extremities
- Weight fluctuations
- Difficulty breathing/Shortness of breath
If you have experienced any of these symptoms after taking Avandia contact your physician immediately.
If you or someone close to you has suffered a heart attack or cardiovascular
problems after taking Avandia, you may have the right to investigate the possibility
that the injury was caused by Avandia. For a free no-obligation case review click
here
