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Actos, a medication used to manage Type 2 diabetes, has been associated with serious side effects and legal challenges, including a heightened risk of bladder cancer. This blog post explores the medication's effects, the legal landscape surrounding it, and what you should do if you experience adverse reactions—consulting an attorney near you may be essential in navigating potential claims.
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This blog post provides a comprehensive overview of Actos, a medication for Type 2 diabetes, including its common and serious side effects, potential legal actions, and risks like bladder cancer and heart failure. If you or a loved one has experienced adverse effects, consult a personal injury lawyer near you to explore your legal options.
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Attorney confronting pharmaceutical risks of Actos, symbolizing justice for patients affected by severe side effects and legal challenges surrounding the medication.
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Jan 28, 2025 08:36 PM
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What is Actos? Everything You Need to Know
Actos, a medication used to treat Type 2 diabetes, has been a topic of significant discussion due to its associated side effects and the legal actions that have followed. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Actos, its side effects, and the legal landscape surrounding it. If you're considering using Actos or have experienced side effects, understanding these aspects is crucial.
💡 For every post in this series, scroll down to “Related Posts.”
What is Actos?
Actos, also known by its generic name pioglitazone, is a medication prescribed to help control blood sugar levels in individuals with Type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as thiazolidinediones (TZDs) and works by increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Actos in 1999, and it was manufactured by Takeda Pharmaceuticals.
💡 For every post in this series, scroll down to “Related Posts.”
Common Side Effects of Actos
Like many medications, Actos comes with a range of potential side effects. While some are mild and manageable, others can be severe and life-threatening. Common side effects include:
- Headaches
- Upper respiratory infections
- Weight gain
- Muscle pain
- Sinus infections
- Sore throat
- Trouble breathing
These side effects are generally not severe, but it's essential to monitor them and consult a healthcare provider if they persist or worsen.
Serious Side Effects and Risks
The more concerning side effects of Actos are those that can lead to long-term health issues. According to the Mayo Clinic, these include:
- Hypoglycemia
- Bone fractures
- Congestive heart failure
- Bladder cancer
- Liver damage or failure
- Low blood sugar
- Macular edema
- Heart attack
- Increased risk of heart disease
If you or a loved one experiences any of these severe side effects, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately and consult a personal injury lawyer near you to explore potential legal claims.
Legal Actions and Lawsuits
The legal landscape surrounding Actos is complex, with numerous lawsuits filed against Takeda Pharmaceuticals and Eli Lilly, the co-manufacturer. These lawsuits primarily focus on the failure to adequately warn patients about the risks associated with Actos, particularly the increased risk of bladder cancer and heart failure.
Bladder Cancer Risk
In 2011, the FDA announced that long-term use of Actos might be linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer. This announcement led to a wave of lawsuits against Takeda and Eli Lilly, with plaintiffs alleging that the companies did not sufficiently warn users about this risk. The FDA's decision was based on a ten-year-long study that revealed patients with greater exposure to Actos faced a higher risk of developing bladder cancer.
Heart Failure Concerns
The FDA also identified a risk of heart failure associated with Actos, requiring a black box warning on the drug's label. This warning is the FDA's strongest, indicating a significant risk of serious or life-threatening side effects.
Lawsuits and Settlements
Over 10,000 lawsuits were filed against Takeda, resulting in a $2.4 billion settlement in 2015 to resolve approximately 9,000 claims. The lawsuits were consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the Western District of Louisiana. Some cases went to trial, with juries awarding significant damages, although some verdicts were later reduced or overturned.
Notable Legal Outcomes
In a bellwether trial, a Louisiana jury awarded $9 billion in punitive damages, later reduced to $36.8 million, to a plaintiff who developed bladder cancer after using Actos. Takeda was accused of destroying documents related to Actos, which led to additional legal penalties.
Despite the settlements, Takeda and Eli Lilly have not admitted liability, maintaining that Actos is effective for its intended use. The litigation is currently inactive, with no new cases being accepted, but some state-level lawsuits may still be pending.
What Should You Do if You Experience Side Effects?
If you or a family member takes Actos and develops an illness, you may have a legal claim. The best course of action is to consult a personal injury lawyer near you. They can review your claim and advise you on how best to proceed. It's essential to act quickly, as there may be time limits on filing a lawsuit.
Conclusion
Actos has been a significant player in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, but its associated risks have led to substantial legal challenges. Understanding these risks and the legal landscape is crucial for anyone considering or currently using Actos. If you experience any severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately and consult a lawyer to explore your legal options.
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