Researchers Discover Januvia Increases Thyroid, Pancreatic Cancer Risk

In 2011, the peer-reviewed medical journal Gastroenterology published a study by a group of scientists at the University of California Los Angels (UCLA). The researchers evaluated adverse case report received between 2004 and 2009, and tested with animal models. The UCLA researchers found a series of disturbing trends. They found that the risk of Januvia thyroid cancer increased by a factor 1.48 compared to controls. Additionally, the study found a higher risk of both pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer in Januvia users and those who use similar diabetes drugs.

The types of Januvia-induced cancer in question tend to be very aggressive. This means they metastasize or spread very quickly and readily invade new tissues. Thyroid cancer may alter thyroid function. Since the thyroid regulates metabolism, this can result in a sluggish metabolism or a dangerously escalated metabolism depending on the way the cancer progresses.

Partially in light of cancer concerns, the United States Food and Drug Administration has taken great interest in Januvia, and required follow-up research by the manufacturers of Januvia, Merck and Co. In 2009, the FDA required Merck to perform a study to look into the risk of Januvia cancer. They were given several deadlines, including requiring them to design the study by June of 2010, complete the research by March of 2011, and have the final report submitted by June of 2011. The study would consist of a 3-month animal study to determine the safety of the main component of Januvia.

However, the manufacturers of Januvia did not make their deadlines. In December of 2012, the FDA sent a certified letter to Merck, informing that they had failed to comply with the stated deadlines.

Currently, a class action lawsuit is being explored against the manufacturers of Januvia. Such a lawsuit would allege that the manufacturers knew, or should have known, about the serious risks associated with their product. It would further allege that the manufacturers downplayed these risks, preventing patients and their health care providers from having the information they needed to make an informed decision regarding medical treatment. The Januvia lawsuit would seek compensation for damages suffered after taking Januvia and other related medications.

If you or someone you know took Januvia and suffered from serious side effects, including thyroid cancer or other medical complications, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next. However, you must remember that you have rights, and you can take steps to regain control over your situation. You can start by visiting the Type 2 Diabetes Drugs Januvia, Byetta Class Action Lawsuit Investigation. Here, you can submit your information for review. A legal specialist with a background in this type of situation will perform a free initial consultation based on your information. From here, you can receive legal advice tailored to your specific situation.