FDA’s Delay Leads to Actos Bladder Cancer Claim
By John Curran
This site has harped on the FDA’s delays in issuing warnings for months now, but in the case of a new Actos bladder cancer claim, the facts are directly linked: it took the FDA years to admit that the Type 2 diabetes drug was linked to bladder cancer risks in spite of its own acknowledgement of these side effects years earlier. For one Actos lawsuit plaintiff, Jeffrey Zurio, he had already been taking Actos for years, with just one month between the FDA warning and his diagnosis.
What is particularly troubling is the FDA’s statement on evaluating Actos bladder cancer side effects in 2010, which indicated a significant amount of evidence for a warning. Initial testing prior to 1999 indicated that Actos-induced bladder tumors were being found in lab rats. In addition, two separate studies indicated in 2002 that Actos side effects occurred at a statistically significant rate compared to other Type 2 diabetes drugs.
Finally, in 2008, the FDA’s own study indicated that the diabetes drug was causing Actos bladder cancer side effects in a statistically significant rate after just two years of taking the drug for blood sugar maintenance. Zurio, according to his Actos lawsuit, began taking the medication in 2006 and was diagnosed with bladder cancer in July 2011. Had the FDA notified the public of the risk when the first studies were produced, he may have been able to avoid any potential issues.
Even if the second batch of studies in 2008 had been heeded by the agency, Zurio would have been on the cusp of the risk profile. Given the several years it took for his Actos bladder cancer symptoms to develop, he again may have been able to avoid the problem. As it stands, millions more will face these risks thanks to a tepid warning by the FDA and the introduction of less expensive Actos generics that began over the summer.
If you or someone you know were unaware of the risks of Actos side effects like Mr. Zurio, it may be possible to pursue a claim against the drug’s maker. It’s easy to do so when you visit the Actos Bladder Cancer Class Action Lawsuit Investigation. Simply fill out the short form there and an Actos lawsuit attorney will contact you for free. Depending on the facts of your case, filing a claim could result in a jury award or settlement.
It costs nothing, but could help you or a loved one pay for any necessities. Start now with one of our partner Actos lawsuit attorneys.
Updated December 12th, 2012
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