Millions of people worldwide are affected by diabetes, a chronic illness. However, managing it solely through diet and exercise can be challenging for some. As a result, they rely on medication for blood sugar control. One drug class that mimics insulin-stimulating hormones is incretin mimetics. Despite its benefits, patients raise concerns about these drugs’ safety and possible risks. Therefore, if you or a loved one has developed pancreatic cancer or other health problems after using incretin mimetics, it is essential to consult experienced attorneys specializing in incretin mimetics lawsuits.
What are Incretin Mimetics?
In managing blood sugar levels for individuals with Type II Diabetes, incretin mimetics has gained popularity as a class of drugs. Firstly, these drugs mimic the effect of incretin hormones that naturally stimulate insulin release after meals. By increasing insulin secretion, these medications can help lower blood sugar levels and improve overall blood glucose control. Additionally, Byetta and Victoza are among the most popular drugs in this class, both requiring injection. However, it’s important to note that concerns about possible side effects, including an increased risk of pancreatitis, thyroid cancer, inflammation of the pancreas, and pre-cancerous pancreatic findings, have been raised. Ultimately, like any medication, discussing the benefits and risks of incretin mimetics with your doctor is important to determine if they are the right choice for you.
What are the Lawsuits About?
Incretin mimetic drug manufacturers face lawsuits alleging that the drugs increase the risk of pancreatic cancer, thyroid cancer, and acute pancreatitis. Some plaintiffs also claim that the drug companies did not adequately warn patients of these potential risks. These cases have been consolidated in a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in California federal court.
Some risk factors that may contribute to pancreatitis include a history of pancreatitis, high triglycerides, and alcohol abuse. However, healthcare professionals should warn patients about the risk of these side effects when prescribing incretin mimetic drugs, and patients should watch for symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
History of Incretin Mimetics
The FDA approved Byetta in 2005, followed by Victoza, Januvia, and Ongylza. These drugs mimic the incretin hormone and stimulate insulin release after a meal.
Reports of Acute Pancreatitis
The FDA has received reports of acute pancreatitis linked to these drugs since 2008, which have resulted in hospitalizations or death. In 2011, the FDA issued a notification warning of an increased risk of pancreatitis with Januvia and Victoza. Furthermore, studies have associated these drugs with thyroid cancer.
Lawsuits and FDA Warnings
Manufacturers face lawsuits from patients who allege serious side effects like pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and even death. In response, the FDA issued warnings in 2014 and 2016 about the potential risks of pancreatic cancer and pancreatitis.
Byetta and its Controversies
Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. manufactures Byetta, a popular injectable drug approved in 2005 for treating type 2 diabetes. However, an investigation was prompted by reports of acute pancreatitis, and further studies revealed an increased risk of pancreatic cancer associated with Byetta.
Lawsuit Settlements
Increasing mimetics have prompted multiple lawsuits, with Bristol-Myers Squibb settling for $2.5 million in 2013 and Amylin Pharmaceuticals facing a class-action lawsuit in 2015, resulting in a settlement of $50.8 million.
In California, cases against Merck for Januvia and Janumet, two commonly prescribed incretin mimetics, have been consolidated in multidistrict litigation (MDL). The COVID-19 pandemic caused the postponement of the first trial in this MDL, originally scheduled for 2020, until 2021. The plaintiff in this trial developed pancreatic cancer after taking Januvia.
The FDA’s Warning
The FDA issued a drug safety communication warning on August 28, 2015, stating that incretin mimetic drugs may cause severe and disabling joint pain. Additionally, the FDA made an update to the warning and precautions section of all medicines in this drug class. However, the FDA has not yet definitively stated the increased risk for pancreatic cancer or thyroid cancer associated with these medications.
Get the Facts on Your Rights in the MDL Court
California’s Reopened Multi-District Litigation (MDL) court currently has 1,241 pending cases as of September 2023. Centralizing these lawsuits aims to enhance efficiency, streamline the process, and reduce costs for all parties, including the courts. Consolidating the lawsuits can minimize conflicting rulings, duplicative discovery, and inconsistent pre-trial rulings. Overall, it’s clear that the lawsuits related to incretin mimetic drugs are far from reaching a resolution.
Incretin Mimetics Lawsuit – Take Action Now
Suppose you or someone you know have been taking Incretin Mimetic drugs and have suffered any adverse effects, such as pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or thyroid cancer. In that case, you might be eligible to file a lawsuit. Don’t wait; take action now and seek the help of attorneys like Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault.
Attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and options and provide professional guidance, advice, and representation. By holding manufacturers accountable, you can secure compensation for your pain, suffering, lost wages, and additional expenses, ensuring that you can focus on your health and recovery rather than financial stress. If you need assistance or consultation, please contact Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault today and take the first step towards seeking the justice you deserve at 419-843-6663 or online.
