AVANDIA IS LINKED TO AN INCREASED RISK OF HEART ATTACK AND STROKE

The type II diabetes drug Avandia is linked to major cardiac problems and an increased risk of stroke with a 64% increase in fatal heart attacks for those who take it as opposed to those not taking it according to a study conducted by the Cleveland Clinic which was published in the May 2007 New England Journal of Medicine. A recent Wall Street Journal article discussed the debate on whether the FDA should take the drug off of the market. Avandia is currently under review by the Institute of Medicine. The drug, produced by GlaxoSmithKline PLC, is meant to treat those with type II diabetes by controlling their blood sugar level. A similar drug, Actos made by Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., is currently involved in a study with Avandia to compare the safety of the two drugs. The Institute of Medicine is reviewing the results of this study to make a decision as to whether Avandia is safe for patients. This trial was approved in 2007 and so far Actos has proven to be a safer option. An FDA principal deputy, Dr. Joshua Sharfstein, has asked that the review be completed by July to be discussed by both FDA and other medical advisors.

If you or a loved one suffered a heart attack or stroke while taking Avandia, the Levensten Law Firm can help you obtain compensation for your injuries. Please do not hesitate to contact Scott Levensten at 1-800-510-1325.