Lawsuits Over Januvia, Byetta Side Effects Move Toward Trial
By John Curran
Januvia is a type-2 diabetes treatment that comes in pill form and is often prescribed alongside the generic metformin to help improve insulin production and moderate blood sugar levels. However, recent studies have indicated that by increasing the number of cells that create insulin, it can also lead to pancreatitis, or inflammation of the organ that is often a precursor to pancreatic cancer.
Since the drug was only approved in 2006 and a combination medication that grouped Januvia and metformin together, known as Janumet, only came to the market on April 2, 2007, lawsuits are only starting against manufacturer Merck & Co. However, there are a number of similar drugs that are designed to increase the size of the pancreas to spur insulin production, and they bear watching for people who have dealt with Januvia pancreatic cancer side effects.
They come in both injectable and pill forms, and attorneys note that state courts in California are currently handling drug injury lawsuits involving Byetta, an Eli Lilly type-2 diabetes treatment. Januvia lawsuit attorneys note that some of these cases have already been settled, although it is unclear what amounts plaintiffs who did so received in terms of financial or other types of compensation as a result.
The results have shown promise for plaintiffs, which is important because Januvia pancreatic cancer side effects are often fatal. The five-year fatality rate is about 80 percent. In addition, the Journal for the American Medical Association notes that the type-2 diabetes drug may double the risk of pancreatitis, or an inflamed and enlarged pancreas. Other drugs like Byetta also have had similar risks, according to medical studies, resulting in claims beginning in 2008. Federal cases involving these and other medications may soon be centralized in California.
Rapid declines associated with pancreatitis and cancer from these drugs mean that acting quickly is important. People who think that they have developed problems as a result of treatments for diabetes should get a free consultation with Januvia lawsuit attorneys. One is available at the Type 2 Diabetes Drugs Januvia, Byetta Class Action Lawsuit Investigation.
They can help people who took these medications and their loved ones understand if they are eligible to file a claim against Merck & Co. or Eli Lilly and what steps they need to take prior to trial. Any successful jury award or settlement may help pay for chemotherapy and other needs.
Updated May 30th, 2013
All medical device, dangerous drug and medical class action and lawsuit news updates are listed in the Drug and Medical Device section of Top Class Actions.
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