Januvia Risks Linked to Hospitalizations
Glucose controlling drugs for diabetics have long been suspected of having a negative effect on the cardiovascular system. Recent studies are looking at the link to heart failure. A study published in the JACC Heart Failure by one Daniala Weir and her colleagues found an almost 3.5% increase for hospitalization related to heart failure in patients who were diabetic and took Januvia (sitagliptin) for glucose control. The increase, though small, hints at a possible connection between DPP-4 inhibitors and heart failure that may affect the way doctors approach prescribing this medication in the future.
About Januvia
Januvia was developed by Merck & Co., Inc. to help Type 2 Diabetes patients control their blood glucose levels. The FDA approved the drug in October 2006. The drug helps the body produce insulin targeting pancreatic cells and affecting the incretin system. Januvia risks include a reported link to impeded bodily function in combating certain types of cancerous cells. Doctors postulate that Januvia risks may include a higher risk of pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and thyroid cancer.
Two studies conducted in 2009 and 2011 examined the connection between Januvia, pancreatitis, and pancreatic cancer. The studies both concluded that yes, the drug was helpful to Type 2 Diabetes patients, but there was a significant risk of developing pancreatic problems as a result.
Legal Actions Against Merck
Some Januvia risks are so severe that they allegedly resulted in death for some patients. Lawsuits have been filed to seek damages on behalf of patients who developed pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or thyroid cancer while they were taking the drug. The lawsuits allege that Januvia risks are not clearly defined; an idea that is backed by the FDA requesting that Merck revise the label for the drug to better spell out the risks of taking the drug.
The lawsuits also contend that manufacturers withheld vital information about the risks associated with the drug and continue to aggressively market the drug.
Seeking Legal Counsel?
If you or a loved one has developed pancreatitis, pancreatic or thyroid cancer after being on Januvia, you may have cause for legal action. These types of illnesses cause a severe impact on a person’s life, sometimes even resulting in death. That often includes pain, suffering, lost work and wages. Contact Attorney Group to discuss your claim. A consultation is free with no obligations. Should you decide to pursue compensation for your pain and suffering, we can connect you with an affiliated attorney.
