Avandia Resources: Actos Side Effects
Side effects of Avandia have been linked to a risk of heart attacks, heart failure and death. Actos is a similar drug in the same class, but the same risk has not been identified.
Actos (generic pioglitazone hydrochloride) is an oral medication which is used for treatment of Type 2 diabetes. It is part of the same class of drugs as Avandia (generic rosiglitazone), which has been the focus of concern in the medical community since reports found that Avandia may increase the risk of heart attacks and heart related death.
Both Avandia and Actos side effects could lead to serious fatal heart problems, known as congestive heart failure. In June 2007, the FDA requested that a 'Black Box' warning be added to the labels of both diabetes drugs regarding an increased risk of congestive heart failure.
Research has not identified an increased risk of heart attacks or death associated with Actos, even though that result does appear to be caused by Avandia.
Actos is manufactured by Japanese drug maker Takeda Pharmaceuticals Co. and Eli Lilly. It was approved by the FDA on July 15, 1999.
HEART PROBLEMS
Actos side effects increase the risk of heart failure, which could lead to a heart attack. Heart failure is a chronic condition which occurs when the heart can not effectively pump blood. If early signs are identified, it is manageable and treatable with drugs.
Recent reports regarding Avandia, which is a similar drug to Actos, demonstrate that users of the competing diabetes drug could face an increased risk of heart attacks and heart related deaths, in addition to heart failure. A heart attack is a much more serious risk, which occurs when the blood flow from the heart is stopped. This can lead to immediate death or result in permanent injuries.
>>INFORMATION: Avandia Side Effects
Actos has not been the center of controversy like Avandia, since no study has been released confirming that it is linked to an increased risk of heart attacks. Avandia and Actos are both part of the same class of drugs, known as thiazolidinediones (TZDs) or glitazones and they are both known as PPAR drugs (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors). Specifically, they target gamma receptors, which helps bring down blood sugar and makes it effective for treatment of diabetes. Another PPAR drug was Rezulin, which was recalled in 2000 after it was linked to liver failure.
AVANDIA LAWSUITS
The Avandia lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are reviewing lawsuits nationwide for users of Avandia who suffered a heart attack, heart failure or death. Actos lawsuits are not currently being reviewed, but the research regarding this drug is being closely evaluated by our lawyers.
If you, a friend or family member have taken Actos and suffered heart problems as a side effect, request a free consultation to discuss what legal rights may be available.
