Generic Version of Actos Continues to Raise Concerns Since FDA Approval
By Andrea Gressman
Since an onslaught of Actos lawsuits, possible side effects — bladder cancer for example — regarding a generic version of Actos have moved a consumer product review organization to recommend not using the drug, which is used to treat diabetes. An October 18, 2012 press release indicates the arousal of concerns over a generic version of Actos, despite its approval by the FDA.
Prescription medications can be expensive for consumers and patients, many of whom spend big bucks on them on a regular basis. Developing less expensive, generic versions of the drug may save money while producing the same or similar effects. Consequently, consumers can save a lot of money, up to 80% or so, on these generic versions of the big-name drugs. The Boston Globe recently published an article regarding this fact. Though the thought of saving money is enticing, not all generic drugs are created equal, and the celebration of such generics may be short-lived, such is the case with Actos’ generic form, which was recently approved by the FDA and now is raising a great deal of concern when it comes to Actos and the number of Actos lawsuits that have recently been filed due to the negative side effects linked to the drug.
Actos Review: The Brand Name Version and the Generic Version
Actos (pioglitazone) is a type 2 diabetes drug. Despite being the top-selling diabetes drug with a great deal of daily use by patients across the world, the allegations of side effects remains a thorn in its side. FDA indicates that the Actos label makes a reference that a year or more of using the drug is possibly and potentially associated with an elevated risk of bladder cancer. Since then, a number of Actos lawsuits have been filed by former Actos patients that have developed bladder cancer as a side effect of taking the popular drug.
In addition to the brand name version, Actos, the generic version of pioglitazone is also being tied to the concerns for dangerous side effects. In fact, there were many who were astonished that the FDA approved the generic version of Actos in the first place. As a result, a consumer product review organization that operates independently, Consumer Reports, has recently advised that patients should use neither the brand name, nor the generic versions of Actos.
On the topic of the generic form, a reference from Consumer Reports states that it is best to avoid this bargain at all cost. It has been noted that this generic version of Actos has been linked to severe side effects, which not only include bladder cancer, but also heart failure and bone fractures. Patients are only advised or recommended to use Actos or its generic version as a last resort, when all other options have been exhausted.
It is no surprise that Consumer Reports have given these recommendations, especially with the seriousness and gravity of these potentially dangerous side effects linked to Actos. Actos users need to be aware of symptoms associated with the side effects of Actos, especially bladder cancer. Blood in the urine is the most tell-tale sign of bladder cancer. However, in some circumstances, it may only be viewed under a microscope. There are other symptoms to be on the lookout for which involve bladder cancer. These are frequent urination, pain during urination, severe lower abdomen pain, and a burning sensation during urination.
Before taking Actos, it is strongly advised to discuss all potential and possible side effects with your doctor. Consumers need to have all the information and knowledge available to them of any and all possible and potential problems so they may make sound judgments in regards to their overall health and well-being.
Updated October 25th, 2012
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