Actos (pioglitazone hydrochloride) is a type 2 diabetes medication belonging to a class of drugs called thiazolidinediones. This class of drugs is connected to bladder cancer, liver disease and heart and cardiovascular disease, including an increased risk of congenital heart failure. Previously prescribed as an alternative to Avandia, Actos was initially believed to be safer, yet studies have shown (2010) that both drugs are associated with the same risk of heart disease and even death. While the FDA issued new restrictions on Avandia, they did not tighten restrictions on Actos. Even so, consumer reports now suggest that Actos only be used as a last resort.

If you believe that you or a loved one have been injured as a result of taking Actos, you need to know your options. Chances are, you’ve experienced physical as well as financial and emotional anguish due to your injuries. You need to know—you may be entitled to compensation for your Actos-related injury including medical expenses (present and future), loss of wages, pain and suffering, and more.

The attorneys at the Harman Law Firm believe that every patient deserves the right to justice if a defective or dangerous drug has harmed them. We have the resources and the experience needed to take on drug companies and pharmaceutical giants that do not operate safely or issue proper warnings. Let us be your advocate. Call the Harman Law Firm for a free, no obligation consultation to discuss your injury.

Side Effects and Serious Health Risks Associated With Actos

As with any medication, health risks and side effects relating to the type 2 diabetes drug, Actos, may differ based on age, weight or gender. Even so, product-review publications now say that it’s best to avoid Actos in the both the brand name and generic form, due to the severity of health risks associated with it. The following are common side effects noted:

• Respiratory infection
• Sinus infection, including a sore throat
• Urinary tract infection
• Headache and dizziness
• Muscle and limb pain
• Tooth pain
• Fever and chills (flu-like symptoms)
• Low blood sugar

While taking Actos, patients may feel ill overall, with increased fatigue and lethargy. Though the following serious health risks are less common, they are severe and life threatening:

• Bladder cancer
• Heart failure
• Liver failure
• Macular edema
• Bone fractures

It’s important to know—Actos has been pulled from shelves in France and Germany, while the FDA continues to review safety concerns associated with it in the U.S.

If you or someone you love have experienced serious side effects and health risks as a result of taking Actos, you are encouraged to call the Harman Law Firm today to learn about your options. You deserve justice and the right compensation if a dangerous or defective drug has harmed you. You can be sure—our attorneys are ready to take on drug companies and hold them accountable.

For a free initial consultation to discuss your injuries, contact the Harman Law Firm today.