Type 2 diabetes can be a difficult disease to manage. There are a variety of medications doctors prescribe to their patients to get excess blood sugar under control. However, it may very often take awhile to find the right medication, or medications to work for each patient. And, in some cases, type 2 diabetes medications carry some serious adverse health risks.
What is Onglyza and Why Might It Be Dangerous?
A relatively new class of diabetes drugs, known as incretin mimetics, of which Onglyza (saxagliptin) is a member, has been causing problems for diabetes patients since they were first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2005. Several post-market studies suggest that these drugs, which mimic the incretin hormones to help regulate the body’s glucose levels, might cause conditions such as pancreatitis, kidney complications, certain types of cancer, and heart problems. Some patients have filed lawsuits against AstraZeneca AB, the manufacturer of Onglyza, and Onglyza XR, alleging they have suffered serious health problems after taking the drug as prescribed by their physicians.
If you feel your health has been compromised by Onglyza, please contact us today using this form. Our attorneys are currently representing clients with personal injury cases filed against AstraZeneca AB, seeking compensation for medical expenses and other damages allegedly caused by the drug.
Following is some important information about Onglyza, which patients with type 2 diabetes should consider:
Common Side Effects
There is no such thing as a side-effect free prescription medication, but some side effects could cause chronic health problems, or could potentially be life-threatening. Here are some of the more severe adverse side effects associated with Onglyza:
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Thyroid Cancer
- Pancreatitis
- Acute Pancreatitis
- Hemorrhagic Pancreatitis
- Necrotizing Pancreatitis
- Kidney Complications
- Renal Failure
Cardiac Risks Have Recently Been Reviewed By the FDA
In April, 2015, the FDA assigned a panel to review the SAVOR outcomes trial that looked at heart problems potentially caused by Onglyza. The study, which was originally published in 2013, looked at 16,492 type 2 diabetes patients who had either been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease or had been identified as high risk for cardiovascular disease. Initial results found 27 percent of patients taking Onglyza were hospitalized for heart failure.
The FDA noted that this was a “credible” risk to patients, and is currently evaluating the entire class of drugs to determine if all the member medications will endanger patients with a history of heart problems.
I Have a History Of Heart Problems. What Should I Do?
If you have a history of heart problems and are currently taking Onglyza, you should discuss your options with your physician. If you have had issues with congestive heart failure, heart attacks, strokes or other cardiac issues, there might be a more appropriate medication you could take that will help treat your diabetes. Keep in mind that AstraZeneca AB, and other manufacturers of diabetes medications are not allowed to state the drugs reduce the risks of heart attacks and strokes, but there are medications that might be better options for certain patients. Only trained medical professionals can determine which prescription medications are appropriate.
I’ve Had Health Problems Since I Started Taking Onglyza. Should I File a Lawsuit?
If you or a loved one have a history of heart disease, or if you’ve developed heart problems that you believe might be caused by Onglyza, you could have grounds to seek compensation for things like medical expenses, loss of income, and other damages.
The attorneys at Morgan & Morgan are ready to evaluate your case, and help you determine if you are eligible to file a heart attack or heart failure lawsuit against the makers of Onglyza.
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