Another Study Links Actos to Bladder Cancer

A new study adds to the mounting evidence that the diabetes drug Actos (pioglitazone) increases the risk for bladder cancer.

Researchers at the University of Alberta School of Public Health in Canada reviewed previous studies on thiazolidinediones – a drug class that includes Actos – and bladder cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes, according to HealthDay. They found that taking Actos raised the risk of bladder cancer by nearly 22 percent, but that the individual risk of getting the disease remained very low.

The study, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, said that it is not apparent yet how the drug may raise the risk of bladder cancer, but some animal studies suggest that the drug could cause crystals to form that irritate the bladder, possibly playing a role in the development of bladder cancer, according to HealthDay.

Actos has been linked to bladder cancer in various other studies. One study, conducted by researchers at Montreal’s McGill University, found that taking the drug for two years may double a patient’s risk for the condition.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by Actos or another dangerous drug, contact Sokolove Law for a free legal consultation and to find out if a dangerous drug lawyer may be able to help you. For legal help, call (800) 581-6358.

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