Approved in 2010, Onglyza (saxagliptin) was seen as a revolutionary way to quickly and effectively balance blood sugar levels in those diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.

Onglyza is favored by physicians and patients alike for its efficacy in blood sugar regulation without the side effect of hypoglycemia. Unlike many other diabetes medications, patients do not gain as much weight as a result of using this drug. But lawsuits and reports of adverse effects indicate Onglyza poses the risk of several side effects.

Onglyza, along with Januvia (sitagliptin), Tradjenta (linagliptin) and Nesina (alogliptin) are part of a group of drugs called DPP-4 inhibitors. The drug type was seen as a great advancement in the management of Type 2 diabetes, and quickly became a commonly-prescribed treatment.

However, as more patients began taking the drug, side effects began to be more frequently reported by consumers and physicians.

Commonly reported side effects of Onglyza include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, upper respiratory infections, stuffy/runny nose, urinary tract infections, swelling and fluid retention, headache and sore throat. Most of these are fairly mild, and physicians often judge the risks of these side effects to be less of a concern than the favorable benefits.

However, an increasing number of doctors began seeing more serious side effects including pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas that could lead to hospitalization, or even death), heart failure, and pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer is one of the most difficult to treat because it is often not diagnosed until it has progressed to a later stage and the damage is more widespread.

A research study in 2013 looked at the autopsied pancreas in individuals who were taking incretin drugs such as Onglyza, other DPP-4 drugs and related GLP-1 drugs. Their pancreases showed abnormal beta cells as well as adenomas, small, benign tumors that may turn malignant. It was noted that patients taking other oral diabetic medications did not have the same pancreatic abnormalities.

In 2011, the FDA issued a warning about Onglyza and the increased risk of pancreatitis associated with its use. In April, the FDA issued an additional warning that Onglyza carried an increased risk of heart failure. The FDA has said there is insufficient evidence to prove the link between Onglyza and pancreatic cancer.

Onglyza Pancreatic Cancer Lawsuit

Lawyers are assisting individuals diagnosed with pancreatic cancer who have been prescribed Onglyza prior to the onset of their condition. If you or a loved one suffers from pancreatic cancer and have taken Onglyza, you may be able to take legal action. Lawyers are available to assist in consultations to discuss your situation.