Amidst the relentless scrutiny that has already shrouded Actos for its association with bladder cancer, growing concerns regarding yet another catastrophic side effect continue to plague Takeda Pharmaceuticals. Recent studies preformed by researchers at the University of Nottingham suggest that Actos may be responsible for individuals developing macular edema, a condition in which symptoms may ultimately lead to blindness.
Information regarding newly discovered Actos side effects was divulged at the American Diabetes Association’s Annual Meeting in San Diego, California. According to researchers at the University of Nottingham, patients who are unable to keep their blood sugar under control, while on an Actos regimen, may increase their risk of macular edema.
Actos (generic: pioglitazone) is an orally administered diabetes medication that assists in the treatment of blood sugar regulation. It was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in July, 1999. It is Takeda Pharmaceuticals’ best-selling drug, with sales of $3.4 billion last year. However, new research suggests that Actos may be responsible for macular edema.
Macular edema occurs when fluid and protein deposits collect on or under the macula of the eye and causes it to thicken and swell. The swelling can potentially distort a person’s central vision, as the macula is near the center of the retina at the back of the eyeball. Due to the severity of Actos macular edema, patients may wish to seek compensation for their suffering by filing an Actos lawsuit.
According to the research conducted at the University of Nottingham, which studied 100,000 diabetics from the United Kingdom, evidence pointed to a potential risk of macular edema in those who used Actos. The results of the study were shocking, in that they found that 1.3% of those who took Actos developed diabetic macular edema after a period of one year, whereas only .02% of patients who did not take the medication began to develop signs of the complication. The results indicate that the risk of diabetic macular edema increased 3 to 6 times in people who used Actos to treat diabetes.
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Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Actos, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.