-December 17, 2007
A recent study, which analyzed the effects of diabetes drugs in thousands of elderly patients, found that Avandia elevated the risks of heart attack and death.
The newest finding regarding the controversial medication is published in the latest issue of American Medical Association.
Study Puts Avandia Under Spotlight Once Again
The study, which was conducted by researchers from the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences in Toronto, questions whether Avandia should remain on the market.
“Our study suggests that at least in this high-risk population, the harms of the drug may outweigh the benefits,” explains the lead author of the study, Dr. Lorraine L. Lipscombe.
In the study, the health outcomes of 159,000 people over the age of 65 that were taking Avandia were analyzed.
Conclusions Expose Risks
According to the study, Avandia users had a 60 percent increased risk of heart failure, a 40 percent increased risk of heart attacks and a 30 percent increased risk of death, compared with patients who were taking other medications.
The study found that for every 100 people taking Avandia, over the course of four years, five additional deaths would occur.
Dr. Lipscombe states that four heart attacks were reported and there were three additional episodes of heart failure.
“As you accumulate more and more evidence that Avandia has this problem, and it involves a serious consequence, namely heart attack and death, it puts a lot of pressure on the F.D.A. to do more,” says Dr. Lipscombe.
(Source: New York Times)
Have you or a loved one been harmed by Avandia? If so, please contact us today to speak with an experienced attorney who will enable you to receive the support and guidance you will need to protect your rights and pursue a case.
