Onglyza and Risk of Heart Attack
These diabetes-related statistics are listed on the Centers for Disease Control website:
- 29 million people in the United States (9.3 percent) have diabetes.
- 1.7 million people aged 20 years or older were newly diagnosed with diabetes in 2012.
- 208,000 people younger than 20 years have been diagnosed with diabetes (type 1 or type 2).
- 86 million adults aged 20 years and older have prediabetes.
- 10.6% of Kentuckians are diagnosed as diabetic
- Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in Kentucky
Clearly diabetes is a nationwide health problem. Pharmaceutical companies are racing to develop diabetes medications that can help to address the epidemic of diabetes. As a result, people suffering from type 2 diabetes have many medication options available to help control blood sugar levels. Unfortunately many of these drugs carry health risks about which people need to be educated.
Recently, the FDA has issued a warning that Onglyza, and a similar diabetes drug called Kombiglyze, may increase the risk of heart failure in its users. The FDA is also investigating Onglyza regarding potential risks of pancreatic cancer and thyroid cancer. Further studies and investigations are currently underway.
What is Onglyza?
Onglyza is a new kind of type-2 diabetes treatment known as an incretin mimetic. Onglyza works by mimicking hormones that the body naturally produces after eating a meal in order to stimulate insulin production. The active ingredient in Onglyza is saxagliptin.
Side Effects of Onglyza
The FDA warning on Onglyza came after the agency reviewed study findings that showed that Onglyza users had a 27% greater chance of hospitalization as the result of heart failure than a control group in the same study. The FDA has recommended that a warning label be placed on all Onglyza packaging. Additionally, the FDA recommended further studies on Onglyza health risks.
Other serious side effects linked to Onglyza may include:
- Kidney complications
- Thyroid Cancer
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Pancreatitis
- Renal Failure
- Skin reactions
What are the Symptoms of Heart Failure?
Patients using Onglyza should be alert as to the symptoms of heart failure which could include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Unusual fatigue
- Irregular heart rate
- Wheezing or ongoing cough
- Swelling of extremities
Patients should report such symptoms to their medical provider. Patients should not discontinue use of Onglyza without speaking to a physician.
Onglyza Lawsuits in Kentucky
Kentucky patients who have had a serious cardiac event since treating with Onglyza may want to consider their legal options. Currently there are a number of lawyers exploring lawsuits against AstraZeneca, the maker of Onglyza, alleging that the pharmaceutical company did not adequately warn users of the risks of heart failure. A lawyer can help you to determine if your case warrants investigation.
Please contact Brett H. Oppenheimer, a Kentucky attorney, who can review your case. Call (502) 242-8877 for a free consultation.
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