Actos (pioglitazone, also marketed in the US as Actoplus Met, and Duetact) is in the class of drugs known as thiazolidinedione. It is used by itself (monotherapy) or in combination with other drugs (typically insulin, sulfonylurea, or metformin) for the treatment of diabetes mellitus type 2. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Actos for this use in July 1999.
- Bladder cancer
- Rhabdomyolysis
- Acute kidney failure
- Congestive heart failure
- Acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) when using 45mg dose
A study published in September of 2003 indicated a total of six congestive heart failures resulting in people taking either pioglitazone (Actos) or rosiglitazone (Avandia). All six patients complained of shortness of breath, swollen feet, and weight gain, all of which are symptoms of congestive heart failure and pulmonary edema, or the buildup of fluid in the lungs. An ongoing safety review by the FDA also shows there is an increased risk in bladder cancer with prolonged use of this medication. The FDA also warns of an increased risk of the condition rhabdomyolysis when using Actos, particularly when used in combination with statins, a class of cholesterol-lowering medication. Symptoms of rhabdomyolysis include pain, swelling, tenderness and weakness of the affected muscle tissue. As kidney failure develops, symptoms will include nausea, vomiting, confusion; coma, abnormal heart rate or rhythm, dark urine and problems with blood clotting will also develop in later stages.
An FDA analysis half way through a 10-year study showed there was no overall increased risk of bladder cancer with pioglitazone use. However, there was an increased risk patients with the longest exposure to pioglitazone, and in those exposed to the highest cumulative dose of the drug.
If you or someone you love was diagnosed with bladder cancer, rhabdomyolysis or acute kidney failure while taking Actos (pioglitazone), you should report the incident to the FDA’s MedWatch Program as an adverse medical event by following the link below. You should also request that your physician report the case as an adverse medical event as well.
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/HowToReport/ucm085568.htm
You should also be aware that a diagnosis of bladder cancer, rhabdomyolysis, or acute kidney failure while taking Actos (pioglitazone) could trigger important legal deadlines that can impact your ability to seek compensation for your injuries. You should contact an attorney to discuss your legal options as soon as possible.
Loncar & Associates has been handling pharmaceutical litigation and medical device litigation since 1999 and we have successfully resolved thousands of cases, including substantial settlements for our clients who developed rhabdomyolysis after using the cholesterol medication cerivastatin. Feel free to contact Loncar & Associates using the contact form below or by calling our office at 800-285-4878 to discuss your options.
