Actos ( pioglitazone hydrochloride) is a drug containing pioglitazone, which have been linked to liver and cardiovascular issues. Actos side effects include increased risks of congestive heart failure (CHF), increased risk of rare but serious liver problems, increased risk of fractures and an increased risk of bladder cancer.
The link between Actos and heart failure is strong enough that in 2007 the FDA increased the warnings on the drug concerning congestive heart failure. Actos is also used to treat type two diabetes.
Actos Bladder Cancer
The FDA has issued a warning that Actos may be linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer especially in patients who use the medication for more than one year. Information about the risk of bladder cancer will be added to the Actos warning label. Preliminary results from a long term observation study found an increased risk of bladder cancer in patients with the longest exposure to Actos on the highest cumulative dose of the drug. Patients who have bladder cancer are urged not to use Actos while the medication should be used with caution in patients who have a prior history of bladder cancer.
Germany and France have suspended sales of Actos. Actos along with another diabetes drug made by Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Competact came under fire in Europe after a study revealed an increased risk of bladder cancer among diabetes patients who were taking the medication. The suspension for Actos bladder cancer concerns will affect thousands of individuals who currently use Actos or Competact.
Law suits have now been filed against Takeda Pharmaceuticals alleging patients who took Actos developed bladder cancer.
Other Actos Side Effects
Actos cardiovascular risks are not the only serious safety concerns associated with this diabetes medication. Clinical evidence shows that actos significantly increase the risk of bone fracture, particularly fractures of distal upper and lower limbs in female patients. While the mechanism responsible for increased risk of actos bone fracture is unknown, patients with an increased risk of bone fracture should weigh this side effect risk with the potential benefits with Actos.
Post-marketing studies have also shown that patients taking Actos are at an increased risk of suffering from related Actos hepatitis, Actos liver failure, inflammation of the liver and elevated liver enzymes. Patients using Actos are urged to have their liver enzymes checked periodically.
Are You Taking Actos?
If you are taking Actos and are concerned about the risks posed by this medication it is crucial to speak with a qualified doctor before changing your treatment regime or stopping Actos. Patients who choose to continue to use Actos should be aware of the possible side effect risks and symptoms of these complications.
Patients who develop symptoms of related Actos heart failure, Actos heart attack or other Actos side effects should immediately contact their healthcare provider. Such symptoms may include an unusually rapid increase or decrease in weight, food retention, shortness of breath, fatigue and weakness, confusion and chest pain.
In the case of a heart attack, the symptoms of heart failure can develop rapidly. In most cases however the symptoms of heart disease develop over days or even months.
Have You Been Injured By Actos?
If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury caused by a related Actos side effect you may be able to seek compensation for your losses and suffering. Please contact Liam Moloney, Solicitor, who specialises in product and drug liability law to learn more about your legal rights and options. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation during which we can evaluate your case to determine the best way to help you and your family.
