Woman Blames Lipitor for Causing Type-2 Diabetes
Betty Pauley of Charleston, West Virginia, had no idea that Lipitor has a reputation for causing type-2 diabetes. She was a long-time user of the cholesterol medication, taking the Pfizer drug from June 2001 through November 2011. She was diagnosed with type-2 diabetes on February 10, 2005 but didn’t immediately realize the connection. For the rest of her life, she’ll be required to closely monitor her blood sugar levels, take diabetes medication and follow a strict diet, according to a new Lipitor diabetes lawsuit filed in West Virginia federal court.
Catching type-2 diabetes early, even when it’s caused by Lipitor, is key to still living a full life. However, Pauley feels cheated since managing diabetes is nearly a full-time job. She says she’s now at risk of heart disease, kidney disease, blindness and neuropathy — all “side effects” of type-2 diabetes. Favorite foods and treats are now banned, and like many diabetics she needs to keep an eye out for foot problems.
No Lipitor Diabetes Warning
According to Pauley’s Lipitor lawsuit, if she’d known the risk of diabetes as a side effect of Lipitor, she would have either not taken Lipitor or monitored her blood sugar levels to see if she was developing type-2 diabetes. Pauley never got that chance. She says that Pfizer, the maker of Lipitor, was negligent and guilty of wrongful conduct. Lipitor is “dangerous and defective” according to Pauley and she’s suffering — and will continue to suffer — permanent physical and emotional pain.
Drugs have to go through extensive clinical testing, which means Pfizer probably knew, or should have known, about the risks, Pauley claims in her lawsuit. In fact, there have been studies showcasing the link between Lipitor and type-2 diabetes. Pauley’s Lipitor lawsuit accuses Pfizer of having knowing, careless and reckless disregard for the safety of potential customers. She’s asking for punitive damages as well as compensation.
Early Warning Signs of Diabetes
According to the American Diabetes Association, early warning signs of type-2 diabetes can include extreme fatigue, feeling very hungry even when someone is eating and feeling very thirsty. Bruises that are slow to heal, urinating often and weight loss without a change in diet are also signs. However, these aren’t necessarily symptoms that would have everyone scheduling doctor appointments.
If type-2 diabetes isn’t caught in early stages, it can be more difficult to manage. For example, Pauley has to be on medication for life — but sometimes diabetes can be managed via diet and exercise alone. Diabetes care can also be expensive. Because of Lipitor, she’s now facing a lifetime of additional expenses.
Were You Diagnosed with Diabetes After Taking Lipitor?
Were you prescribed Lipitor and then later diagnosed with type-2 diabetes? Lipitor may have caused your diabetes, and you might have a Lipitor legal claim. Getting a free attorney consultation can help you determine if you have a case.
Learn more at the Lipitor Diabetes Class Action Lawsuit Investigation , where you can submit your information for a free case review by a product liability lawyer specializing in Lipitor diabetes lawsuits.
Updated July 31st, 2013
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