Several clinical trials and studies suggest that Lipitor, a popular medication prescribed to lower cholesterol levels, may increase a patient’s risk of developing diabetes. Manufactured by Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, Lipitor has been effective in helping those with high cholesterol levels, but many patients throughout the U.S. are filing lawsuits against the manufacturer, alleging type 2 diabetes and other serious health complications.
If you took Lipitor and subsequently developed type 2 diabetes or another harmful side-effect, contact Arkansas Lipitor lawyers to learn more about your legal rights and how to pursue a claim. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case, you may be eligible to recover damages including pain and suffering, lost wages and medical expenses.
Lipitor Overview
Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1996, Lipitor, or atorvastatin, falls into a statin group of medications known as hypolipidemics. Lipitor works to prevent the body from creating cholesterol as it blocks a particular enzyme from being released into the liver. This process helps the body to lower low-density lipoproteins (LDLs), also called “bad cholesterol.”
Side Effects of Lipitor
Although the FDA announced in 2012 that it would be updating Lipitor’s warning label to reflect the potential risk of increased blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes, many assert that this warning came too late. If you are suffering from one of the following symptoms of type 2 diabetes, you may consider seeking legal counsel from Arkansas Lipitor lawyers to learn more about your legal rights:
- Blurred vision
- Numbness or tingling in feet or hands
- Bruises or cuts that are slow to heal
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Unusual weight lost, thirst or hunger
- Frequent urination
- Frequent infections
Additionally, Arkansas Lipitor lawsuit lawyers may be able to help you pursue a claim for compensation if you suffered from one or more of the following side effects:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Neurological disorders
- Cancer
- Kidney failure
- Pancreatic dysfunction
- Cognitive loss
- Anemia
- Muscle complications
The FDA reports that patients with smaller body frames, those over the age of 65, or individuals currently taking more than one medication to control their cholesterol levels may be more likely to experience adverse side effects. Additionally, if you are a woman, consume alcohol on a regular basis or have recently been diagnosed with liver disease, kidney disease or type 2 diabetes, you may also be at a higher risk for suffering from health complications. If you would like more information about pursuing a claim and seeking damages for your injuries, contact Arkansas Lipitor lawyers today.
Plaintiffs File Lipitor Lawsuits
Many who are currently in the process of filing lawsuits against Pfizer claim that they would have chosen an alternative drug to treat their cholesterol levels if they had been informed of the risks and side effects of Lipitor prior to beginning their treatments.
According to pending lawsuits, plaintiffs allege that Pfizer hid or misrepresented the complications that could arise from Lipitor use in an effort to boost the company’s profits. Plaintiffs claim that the benefits and the risk of the drug should be released so that consumers can make an informed decision as to whether the medication is right for them.
Additionally, plaintiffs allege that Lipitor is unsafe and defective because there were incorrect or incomplete warnings about the possibility of developing diabetes and other complications while taking the drug. Several claims also include accusations that Pfizer did not perform adequate studies of the medication prior to its introduction and failed to conduct clinical trials once patients began to experience adverse side effects.
Arkansas Lipitor Lawsuit Lawyers Can Help You Today
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with diabetes or other serious health condition while taking Lipitor, Arkansas Lipitor lawyers can help you to determine if you have a valid claim. Plaintiffs across the U.S. are filing lawsuits against Pfizer, alleging adverse and life-threatening side effects while taking the medication. Contact Attorney Group for Arkansas today for your free case evaluation and to learn more about the legal process. We can connect you with affiliated Arkansas Lipitor lawyers who can handle your claim and help you file for compensation to which you may be entitled.
