Research Shows Januvia Increases Risk of Cancer

Januvia is a type-2 diabetes treatment pill sold by Merck to help patients control their blood sugar levels. This drug is supposed to be taken once a day, along with exercise and diet. Last year, Januvia and Janumet (Januvia combined with metformin), were two of the best-selling drugs for Merck, with sales toppling over $5 billion. Unfortunately, recent research indicates that Januvia significantly increases the risk of developing pancreatic cancer and thyroid cancer.

Patients who are taking Januvia are encouraged to have their blood tested regularly to check for any irregularities or possible adverse side effects. Doctors have also prescribed kidney test for patients who are on this drug as well. Patients should seek medical help immediately if they experience any allergic reactions, such as: rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing or swallowing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; unusual hoarseness. Other potential side effects of Januvia include:

• Fever, chills, or persistent sore throat
• Red, blistered, swollen, or peeling skin
• Acute pancreatitis, or swelling and inflammation of the pancreas.

Pancreatitis symptoms may include but not limited to: severe abdominal or back pain, nausea or vomiting, stomach tenderness or swelling, and fever and chills.

In rare cases, it has also been reported that Januvia has caused serious and sometimes fatal cases of lactic acidosis, which is when lactic acid builds ups in the bloodstream faster than it can be removed. Most of these cases have occurred in diabetic patients who also have kidney problems. The risk may also be greater in patients who are elderly or drink alcohol.

Between October 16, 2006 and February 9, 2009, the FDA received 88 reports of acute pancreatitis from people taking Januvia. Some of the reports involved severe pancreatic conditions, such as hemorrhagic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas with bleeding,) and necrotizing pancreatitis (in which the inflamed pancreas destroys itself). After reviewing the reported cases the FDA states that they found that:

• 19 (21%) of the 88 cases occurred within 30 days of starting Januvia or Janumet
• 47 (53%) of the 88 cases resolved themselves after Januvia or Janumet use was discontinued

A study conducted in 2011 by researchers at UCLA indicated the possibility of Januvia increasing the risk of pancreatic cancer by 172% and thyroid cancer by 48%. The Journal for the American Medical Association also warned that Januvia could double the risk of pancreatitis, which could lead to pancreatic cancer.

Because acute pancreatitis is and possible death are associated with this drug, and early detection is vital to prevent or cease adverse side effects, the FDA is currently making revisions to the Januvia and Janumet prescription warning labels.

If you believe that you or a loved one have been harmed by Januvia or Janumet, please visit the Type 2 Diabetes Drugs Januvia & Byetta Class Action Lawsuit Investigation. There, you may submit your claim for a free review by a drug injury attorney. If you qualify for legal action, an experienced Januvia lawyer will guide you through the litigation process with no out-of-pocket charges or hidden fees.