Actos

Actos, also known as pioglitazone, is a prescription medication used to improve blood sugar (glucose) control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Actos gained market approval from the FDA on July 15, 1999.  Other products manufactured related to Actos are Actoplus Met (pioglitazone/metformin), Actoplus Met XR (pioglitazone/metformin extended-release), and Duetact (pioglitazone/glimepiride).

The drug is manufactured by Takeda Pharmaceuticals of Japan. Actos was marketed by Eli Lilly Pharmaceutical and Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America in the United States between 1999 and 2006, and then solely marketed by Takeda Japan since 2006.

Increased Risk of Bladder Cancer

Takeda began a 10 year epidemiological study to determine the safety of Actos. During the five-year interim analysis of the study in August 2011, the results found an increased risk in developing bladder cancer after taking Actos for more than one year.

The FDA is also aware of a recent epidemiological study conducted in France which suggests an increased risk of bladder cancer with Actos. Based on the results of this study, France has suspended the use of pioglitazone and Germany has recommended not to start pioglitazone in new patients.

Please fill out a contact form or call me if you or someone you love has developed bladder cancer after taking Actos.  We have experienced lawyers and knowledgeable support staff that can help you.