April 9, 2010

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in May 2007 reported that Avandia nearly doubled the risk of heart failure that could potentially lead to death.  The manufacturer of Avandia, GlaxoSmithKline, disputed the journal’s report, trying to play down the risks of Avandia.  Based on these findings, the FDA issued a safety warning that Avandia patients with a history of heart disease or stroke who may be at an increased risk of heart attack should talk with their doctors about discontinuing therapy with Avandia.  Then in June 2007, the FDA ordered that the Avandia label include a black box warning of Avandia side effects and that Avandia patients should be closely monitored.  In November 2007, GlaxoSmithKline updated the warning label, stating that the data on heart attack risks associated with Avandia was inconclusive and not confirmed.  Repeatedly, GlaxoSmithKline has tried to draw attention away from Avandia side effects.

Senate Investigates Heart Attack Risk in Avandia

The Senate Committee on Finance investigated Avandia heart attack risk in a report released on February 2010. Given that GlaxoSmithKline had knowledge of the heart attack risks not only from journal articles but from their own research as well, the Senate Committee believed that the pharmaceutical company had a responsibility to warn patients and the FDA about Avandia side effects and failed to do so.  GlaxoSmithKline was also accused of intimidating scientists who wished to speak out about Avandia and the possible link to heart attacks or heart disease. 

If you have experienced heart failure, heart attack, or any other Avandia side effects you may be entitled to financial compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.  Avandia lawsuits are currently being filed across the country.

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This article was sponsored by the law firm of Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 E. 40th St., New York, NY  10016, (877) 779-1414, and constitutes Attorney Advertising.  To learn more about Avandia side effects or the Avandia lawsuits please visit www.ConsumerInjuryLawyers.com