Actos Health Risks: Studies Show Actos Increases Risk of Developing Bladder Cancer

While initial laboratory testing showed evidence of a link between Actos and bladder cancer, the drug is still available for prescription in the United States. Unlike the Actos ban in Germany and France, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has even approved a generic form of Actos for public use. This approval, however, comes with a strong warning about various Actos health risks as well as an advisory for physicians, urging them to carefully monitor patients taking this drug.

Actos Health Risks for Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects the body’s ability to metabolize sugar and regulate insulin levels. While lifestyle changes can reduce the health complications associated with type 2 diabetes, some patients need additional medical treatment in order to effectively manage their condition. Actos, included in class of drugs called thiazolidinediones (TZDs), is one of the various medications that doctors can prescribe to help patients control their type 2 diabetes.

Unfortunately, TZDs like Actos also come with serious risks for patients. Studies indicate that Actos might be linked to an increased risk of kidney and cardiovascular problems, especially with long-term use. But it is the possible increased risk of developing Actos bladder cancer that poses the most significant danger for patents taking this mediation.

Recently, a study that appeared in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggested that Actos might increase the risk of developing bladder cancer by as much as 22 percent. Another study, backed by the National Institute of Health and conducted out of the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, revealed that patients taking Actos and other TZD diabetes medications were two and three times more likely to develop bladder cancer as compared to patients on other diabetes medications.

Risk of Actos Bladder Cancer Might Outweigh Benefits

Advocates of Actos suggest that taking the drug is worth the risk, as it is an effective way to help patients gain better control over their type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, opponents are quick to point out that there are other medications that can assist type 2 diabetes patients without increasing their risk of developing bladder cancer.

To determine if Actos is the right medication to manage type 2 diabetes, patients should speak to their doctor to figure out the best course of action. Understanding the risks associated with Actos and asking questions about other options can help patients make informed decisions about their health.

If you or a loved one took Actos and would like more information, the Actos lawyers at Gibbs Law Group can provide you with a free case assessment. To learn more, call our office toll-free at 1-800-254-9493, or you can fill out the form to the right.