First approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1999, Actos is a type-2 diabetes medication that can significantly improve patients control over their blood sugar (or blood glucose) levels. Similar to Avandia, Actos is a thiazolidinedione medication that should be taken in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
When research found that Avandia carried a risk of heart attack, many Avandia patients switched to Actos to manage their type-2 diabetes. In August 2007, the FDA announced that Actos also carried a risk of heart attack (along with heart disease, congestive heart failure, severe allergic reaction, liver damage, and diabetic ketoacidosis). Additionally, the FDA required Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, the maker of Actos, to a include a black box warning regarding the danger of heart attacks.
Actos Heart Attack Symptoms
Actos patients should familiarize themselves with the symptoms of serious Actos side effects – particularly heart attack – so they know when to seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms of an Actos heart attack may include:
- abnormal or irregular heart beat
- anxiety
- chest pain
- feelings of nervousness
- lightheadedness
- loss of consciousness
- nausea
- pain in the neck, shoulders or arms
- shortness of breath
- sweating
Research has found that Actos patients who have the highest risk of developing a heart attack (and other potentially fatal Actos side effects) are those who have:
- taken high doses of Actos
- taken Actos for long periods of time
- a medical history of heart problems or liver disease
Actos Heart Attacks Spark Lawsuits Against Takeda
Actos patients who sustain a heart attack, as well as families of Actos patients who have lost a loved one as a result of an Actos heart attack, may have a strong legal claim against Takeda. They may be entitled to compensation for their injuries, losses, diminished quality of life, pain, and suffering. Injured parties are encouraged to learn more about their legal rights and receive a professional, comprehensive evaluation of their case by meeting with a skilled defective drug attorney for a complimentary initial consult.
If you or a loved one have used Actos and suffered from any side effect including heart disease, congestive heart failure, severe allergic reaction, liver damage, or diabetic ketoacidosis you should contact us immediately for a free and confidential case review. You may be entitled to compensation and we can help.
