If you or someone you care about has suffered adverse effects after Onglyza, our defective drugs attorneys are here to review your case. The Senators Firm’s California Onglyza attorneys are ready to assist you, so call (949)-557-5800 today!
Protecting the Rights of Victims Injured by Unsafe Medications
Onglyza is a medication used to treat type-2 diabetes. First approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2009, Onglyza contains the generic medication saxagliptin and belongs to a class of diabetes drugs known as DPP-4 inhibitors, or incretin mimetics. Januvia®, another popular medication of the incretin mimetics class, was approved earlier in 2006 and was later linked to increased risks of pancreatic cancer. Just as with any DPP-4 inhibitor, Onglyza works by blocking enzymes that degrade hormones that stimulate insulin secretion from the pancreas. As a result, patients who take Onglyza are able to control their blood sugar levels. Although Onglyza may be effective in lowering blood glucose levels, it is not without risks. Aside from side effects that include upper respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections, the medication has been linked to more serious adverse health risks.
Onglyza & Risks of Pancreatic Cancer
Studies have found growing evidence that the use of Onglyza and other similar incretin mimetics leads to increased risks of pancreatic inflammation, also known as pancreatitis and pancreatitis cancer. A serious, life-threatening form of cancer, pancreatic cancer rarely causes apparent symptoms in the early stages of the disease. As such, patients taking Onglyza should seek regular medical evaluations and be aware of the common signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer:
- Rapid weight loss
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Abdominal pain, bloating, and swelling
- Nausea, diarrhea, and indigestion
- Dark-colored urine
- Light or pale-colored stools
As Onglyza and other similar diabetes medications are relatively new, limited research has been conducted regarding the long-term effects associated with the drug. In March 2013, however, a report was published in Diabetes publication linking Onglyza to pancreatic cancer. In response to raising concerns and increased scientific evidence of potential risks, the FDA issued a Drug Safety Communication to announce that they would be investigating reports of DPP-4 inhibitors and their association with pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.
Learn About Filing a Claim with the Assistance of a California Onglyza Lawyer
In light of such alarming studies, our experienced, compassionate California lawyers at The Senators Firm extend our support to those who have suffered adverse side effects after taking Onglyza. With the resources and commitment to ensure that the rights of injured victims are protected, our legal team can review your case and determine whether you may be eligible to pursue monetary compensation for your damages. As the links between the use of Onglyza and pancreatic cancer continue to grow, we strongly encourage victims and families to reach out for the proven legal assistance they need. Feel free to contact a California Onglyza attorney from our firm to discuss your potential lawsuit and learn more about the ways in which we can help.