Lipitor

New Study Confirms Statins’ Diabetes Risk

Certain cholesterol-lowering statin drugs may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a new study published  in the journal BMJ suggests. The risk was greatest for patients taking atorvastatin (Lipitor), rosuvastatin (Crestor) and simvastatin (Zocor), the study said.

The lawyers at Thornton Law Firm are investigating claims relating to Pfizer’s failure to adequately warn about the diabetes risk associated with their blockbuster cholesterol drug. Specifically, we are focusing on claims involving women with a healthy body weight who were prescribed Lipitor as it appears this group receives no benefit from the medication.

If you have taken a recalled medication and are experiencing severe distress due to complications or side effects, call 1-888-341-1405 or contact us online to speak to an attorney today.

What are statins?

Statins are a class of medicines that are frequently used to lower blood cholesterol levels. Recent research indicates that statins may increase your chances of developing type 2 diabetes.

Focusing on almost 500,000 Ontario residents, researchers in Canada found that the overall odds of developing diabetes were low in patients prescribed statins. Still, people taking Lipitor had a 22 percent higher risk of new-onset diabetes, Crestor users had an 18 percent increased risk and people taking Zocor had a 10 percent increased risk, relative to those taking pravastatin (Pravachol), which appears to have a favorable effect on diabetes.

Medical guidelines suggest that a patient should first attempt to modify their lifestyle – healthier diet, increased exercise – prior to starting a regimen of the statin drugs.  If you have any questions about your medications, you should first check with your doctor. Physicians should weigh the risks and benefits when prescribing these medications.

There have been no recommendations that any patients discontinue their statin use.  No change in prescription drug use should occur without first consulting your physician. If you have any questions about your statin use, you should contact your doctor. If you have any questions about your legal rights, you should contact our experienced pharmaceutical drug litigation lawyers.

How we can help

Thornton Law Firm LLP has been a leader in investigating and pursuing compensation for consumers who have been injured by defective drugs and medical devices for more than 30 years. We have a team of attorneys dedicated to this complex area of law. We understand your rights, what is at stake, and how to handle drug claims from beginning to end. For a free evaluation of your case, please contact us by telling us your story here, or by calling our toll-free number: 1-888-341-1405

FDA Drug Safety Communication: Important safety label changes to cholesterol-lowering statin drugs