Avandia Recall: Researchers question continued use
The diabetes drug Avandia has been associated with a 40% increase in the risk of heart attacks, as well as an increased risk of congestive heart failure, bone fractures and in some cases vision loss. A recent editorial in a medical journal questions the FDA’s decision not to issue an Avandia recall.
>>INFORMATION: Avandia Lawsuits
On August 29, 2008, an editorial was published on the website for the medical journal Heart which indicated that the jusitification for the continued use of thiazolidinediones, which are a class of drugs that include Avandia and Actos, is weak to non-existent.
Clinical trials have only shown that the type 2 diabetes drugs help control blood sugar levels, but the researchers indicate it is a “fallacy” to infer health efficacy for diabetics from this. Given the information that has developed over the past 18 months, the researchers strongly recommended that restrictions be placed on the use of tiazolidinediones and questioned the rationale for not issuing an Avandia recall.
Last summer, the FDA held advisory panel meetings to evaluate the heart risks associated with Avandia. Following the hearings, the FDA narrowly voted 8 to 7 against an Avandia recall, and allowed the diabetes drug to remain on the market with a black box warning about the increased risk of heart attacks.
The black box heart attack warning was designed to provide doctors and patients with information about the Avandia side effects, so that they could make an informed decision about whether to use the drug. In the editorial, Drs. Sonal Singh and Curt Furnberg indicate:
“It is clear that the benefit-harm balance has shifted strongly in an undesired direction. At this time, the justification for use of thiazolidinediones is very weak to non-existent.”
AVANDIA RECALL LAWYERS
The Avandia lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represent individuals throughout the United States who have suffered severe and life-changing injuries due to Avandia side effects. Lawsuits are being pursued to recover financial compensation for these injuries as a result of the failure of GlaxoSmithKline, PLC, the maker of Avandia, to adequately warn about the risks.
If you, a friend or family member have suffered a heart attack, stroke, congestive heart failure, fractures or vision loss after taking Avandia, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.
