Side Effects Of Avandia®
The most common side effects seen with Avandia® are upper respiratory tract infection, headache, back pain, hyperglycemia, fatigue, sinusitis, diarrhea, and hypoglycemia. Avandia® has been shown to cause mild to moderate accumulation of fluid (edema) and can lead to heart failure. Patients who already have heart failure may develop worsening symptoms with Avandia®. In addition, anemia may occur and Avandia® also causes increasing amounts of weight gain with increasing doses.
A review of the studies of Avandia® led the FDA to conclude that the medication might increase the risk of heart attacks and angina, but left the association as inconclusive. Additionally, there isn't enough evidence that the risk of heart attack and angina is any greater with Avandia® than with other oral medicines used in the treatment of diabetes.
Since Rezulin (troglitazone), a related drug, was associated with liver injury, it is recommended that liver tests be obtained before starting therapy and periodically thereafter. Side effects that may suggest liver injury include unexplained nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, anorexia (loss of appetite), or dark urine.
Avandia® may cause ovulation in pre-menopausal women who have stopped ovulating because they are resistant to insulin. Avandia® may improve insulin sensitivity sufficiently to cause ovulation. Therefore, there is the potential for Avandia® to lead to pregnancy.
Studies testing Avandia® excluded New York Heart Association Class III and IV patients who have more serious heart disease. Therefore, it is not known how these classes of patients will respond to treatment. The concern is that fluid accumulation may lead to heart failure in these patients.
Avandia® has demonstrated various effects on blood lipids. Studies have shown elevated total and low-density cholesterol (LDL) levels within the first two months of Avandia® therapy, while high-density cholesterol (HDL) levels increase and free fatty acids decrease with continued therapy.
Two large studies have shown increased upper and lower extremity bone fractures in women taking Avandia®.
Your time may be short to collect compensatory or punitive damages for your serious injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured by Avandia®®, time delays may affect your case. Contact us now to see if your case qualifies!