On December 4, 2015, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a safety warning for the popularly prescribed diabetes drug Invokana®. The drug has been linked to a large number of serious and potentially fatal side effects, including ketoacidosis, a condition which results in a toxic buildup of acid in the blood when the body loses the ability to regulate blood sugar. Symptoms of ketoacidosis include excessive thirst, nausea, frequent urination, confusion, abdominal pain, weakness, and fruity or acetone-scented breath. Ketoacidosis is a serious medical condition that can be deadly.
In addition to ketoacidosis, Invokana is also linked to the following side effects:
- Decreased bone mineral density (leading to increased fracture risk)
- Kidney failure
- Pancreatitis
- Cardiovascular failure
- Low blood sugar
- Yeast infections
- Abnormally low blood pressure
- Urinary tract infections
Lawsuits against the maker of Invokana, Janssen Pharmaceuticals (a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson), are currently pending across the country alleging that the company withheld and misrepresented information pertaining to the drug’s potential risks from the FDA. The FDA has revised labels of SGLT2 inhibitors for the treatment of diabetes to include warnings about the risk of ketoacidosis and serious urinary tract infections that may damage or cause the kidneys to fail. In addition, manufacturers of SGLT2 drugs will be required to conduct a postmarketing study to collect further information on the product’s risks and benefits.
For many people, the risks of Invokana may far outweigh the benefits – and now the FDA agrees. If you or a loved one has suffered serious complications while taking Invokana, you have legal options. An Atlanta dangerous drug attorney at Schneider Hammers can help you determine whether you have recourse during a free consultation. You may be entitled to compensation for losses related to use of the drug, including costs of medical care, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.
To get started with an experienced legal team you can trust, fill out an online contact form.
