Contributing to Merck’s arsenal of already prominent diabetes medications, Januvia (generic: sitagliptin) treatment is administered to assist in the regulation of blood sugar levels. Its unique formula is capable of managing type 2 diabetes. However, treatment with this diabetes medication may coincide with severe Januvia side effects. Recent studies suggest that patients who take Januvia may significantly increase their risk of developing various forms pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and any subsequent Januvia side effects that may ensue.
If you or a loved one has suffered from Januvia side effects after taking this diabetes medication, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Januvia Side Effects Lawsuit Overview
Januvia was developed by Merck and released on October 16 2006. Upon its release into the U.S. market, Januvia was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to assist in regulating blood sugar levels of those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and who are otherwise incapable of doing so on their own.
Sitagliptin, the active ingredient found in Januvia, is in a class of medications known as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. As a DPP-4 inhibitor, sitagliptin work to increase the amount of certain natural substances that lower blood sugar when it is high. Subsequently, by inhibiting the production of dipeptidyl peptidase-4, sitagliptin is able to increase the secretion of insulin and suppress the release of glucagon by the pancreas. This drives blood glucose levels towards normal.
Unfortunately, recent studies suggest that the introduction of this diabetes medication may correspond with severe, life-threatening Januvia side effects. The mechanism of action witnessed in this medication may exhibit a propensity for adverse Januvia side effects on the pancreas. Patients who receive Januvia treatment may significantly increase their risk of developing various forms pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and any subsequent Januvia side effects that may ensue. Due to the sever nature of these Januvia side effects, patients may contact a lawyer at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP for a free case evaluation regarding their potential lawsuit.
Januvia Side Effects
The following is a comprehensive list of severe Januvia side effects:
- Pancreatitis
- Acute pancreatitis
- Hemorrhagic pancreatitis
- Pancreatic cancer
- Death
Januvia Pancreatitis
Most often pancreatitis occurs when pancreatic enzymes are activated within the pancreas and not the small intestine. Normally, digestive enzymes secreted by the pancreas do not become active until they reach the small intestine. However, inflammation caused by pancreatitis causes the enzymes inside to attack and damage the tissues that produce them. Pancreatitis can be acute, hemorrhagic, ore necrotizing. Either form is serious and can lead to complications. In severe cases, bleeding, infection, and permanent tissue damage may occur. The following is a list of the signs and symptoms associated with pancreatitis:
- Abdominal pain
- Chills
- Clammy skin
- Fatty stools
- Fever
- Mild jaundice
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Weakness
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
Acute pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that occurs suddenly and usually resolves in a few days with treatment. While it can be a life-threatening illness with severe complications, early treatment has produced good results. If the enzymes responsible for pancreatitis should reach the surrounding tissue, patients may experience what is known as hemorrhagic pancreatitis.
However, if it should progress, it may become what is known as necrotizing pancreatitis. In very severe cases of necrotizing pancreatitis, the pancreatic tissue begins to die, and bleeding increases. The presence of this bleeding proves to be severe and problematic, resulting in severe, life-threatening complications. In severe cases, bleeding, infection, and permanent tissue damage may occur.
Do I Have a Januvia Side Effects Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Januvia side effects lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has suffered from Januvia side effects, 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.