Actos Side Effects

Actos is a medication that is commonly prescribed to treat Type 2 diabetes, and was first approved for use in 1999. It is used to control blood sugar; however, a physician may also prescribe Actos to treat other health conditions.

Actos and Bladder Cancer

One of the most common side effects associated with Actos is an increased risk of bladder cancer. The people who are at the greatest risk for developing bladder cancer are those who have used this medication for more than one year.

Actos now comes with a warning from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warning that states that the long-term use of this drug may result in an increased risk of developing bladder cancer. France and Germany have even banned Actos because many patients who have been diagnosed with bladder cancer were also using Actos at the time. This suspension has been in effect since July of 2011.

Additional Side Effects

Bladder cancer is not the only possible side effect of Actos. Rhabdomylosis is an extremely rare condition that causes the muscles to deteriorate. Health researchers have been studying the link between rhabdomylosis and Actos for quite some time. They have not found the exact link between the two, but they have found that people who use Actos have an increased risk of developing rhabdomylosis. Some of the symptoms of this condition include: fatigue, pain, nausea and muscle weakness. If this condition is left untreated, it can lead to kidney failure.

Actos has also been shown to potentially increase the risk of developing congestive heart failure. A study was done that followed diabetic patients who took Actos for 24 weeks. The result of the study was that almost 10 percent of the patients ended up being hospitalized for heart failure. That is why health care experts strongly advise those who have heart disease to avoid taking Actos.

Researchers have also found Actos can cause fluid retention, which can lead to edema. Edema is a condition that causes swelling in areas of the body and has been linked with heart failure. Other side effects of Actos include hypoglycemia and weight gain.

FDA Response To Actos

The FDA issued a warning in 2002 that stated that heart failure has been reported in patients who have had a history of heart disease. The FDA also reported in July of 2004 that Actos can also increase the risk of developing cancer and may cause fertility problems.

Legal Options and Compensation

Many people who suffered unpleasant side effects while taking Actos will be entitled to legal compensation. Those who have been diagnosed with conditions that have been linked to the use of Actos should consult with a lawyer. A qualified attorney will work hard to make sure that all victims get the compensation that they deserve for their pain and suffering.