MHRA: taking Actos may increase risk of bladder cancer
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the British agency responsible for regulating the safety and effectiveness of drugs and medical devices, issued a drug safety update on Actos (pioglitazone) in August 2011. The update briefly summarizes the report issued by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and includes advice to healthcare professionals when prescribing Actos to patients.
The report follows a French study that resulted in a ban on Actos in France and a similar Actos ban in Germany. Some are wondering if these reports will lead to an Actos recall in the United States.
MHRA Actos Warning to Healthcare Professionals
The MHRA listed several considerations for doctors when prescribing Actos to patients, including:
- Avoid prescribing Actos to patients with a history of or active bladder cancer
- Monitor patients 3-6 months after prescription of Actos
- Discontinue the medication for patients who do not respond to the drug
- Evaluate each patient for known risk factors for bladder cancer prior to prescription
- Carefully consider risks associated with elderly patients
Injured by Actos? Free and Confidential Consultation
The Actos lawyers at Girard Gibbs represent people from across the country who have contracted bladder cancer while taking Actos. If you had bladder cancer after taking Actos or other medications containing pioglitazone, you may have a legal right to pursue financial compensation for your injuries or other damages. Fill out the form to the right or call (866) 981-4800 for a free confidential consultation concerning your possible Actos bladder cancer lawsuit.
