Are you or someone you love currently taking drugs that contain saxagliptin or alogliptin? If so, you may be at an increased risk of heart failure, and if you already suffer from heart or kidney disease, you’re at an even higher risk, according to U.S. health officials. Sold as Onglyza or Kombiglyze XR, it is marketed as an oral hypoglycemic, or anti-diabetic, working to help control diabetes patients control and regulate their blood sugar.
What You Should Know
If you’re taking this medication and worried about the known or potential side effects of taking it, there are a few things you should know:
- Don’t stop taking it without discussing your concerns with your doctor. In many cases, the benefits of taking it may outweigh the risks; your doctor will be able to either tell you why that drug is a good fit for you specifically, or they may find another drug that can provide you the benefits you want and need without the side effects you’re worried about.
- When taking this drug, be aware and tell your doctor if you experience signs and symptoms of heart failure, which include unusual shortness of breath, unusual weakness or fatigue, difficulty breathing (especially when lying down), and heavy, swollen extremities (including legs, ankles, and feet).
There Are Other Options
According to recent reports, the FDA is asking that doctors advise patients who have taken Onglyza and developed heart failure to cease taking the drug; there are other prescription medications available that can help diabetes patients control their blood sugar without the risk of experiencing heart failure. When a medication meant to help you instead starts to threaten your life and normal livelihood, it’s time to reconsider the options available to you. There are other options, and you should discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor to help decide which one may be right for you.
Talk to Your Doctor About Onglyza Side Effects
One prominent doctor at Lenox Hill in New York City suggested that this side effect may apply to all DPP-4 inhibitor drugs (which, in addition to Onglyza, include Januvia, Galvus, and Tradjenta) or whether this side effect is more of a risk for those already at risk for heart disease. Further tests are needed, since some evidence seems to indicate that this class of drugs may reduce heart problems in some patients. The doctor did note that many patients handle the drug well, and experience benefits, as it has shown to reduce blood sugar levels, and other side effects are minor and tolerable, for the most part. However, as with any prescription drug, you should discuss your medical condition, questions, concerns, and family history with your doctor in order to find the most beneficial medication for you.
Onglyza Lawsuit & Eligibility
Onglyza or Kombiglyze XR patient who have experienced heart failure, thyroid cancer, pancreas problems, death, or other severe complications—as well as any family members who are acting on the patient’s behalf—may be eligible to bring a lawsuit.
How Does Bringing a Lawsuit Help?
Injuries & deaths can lead not only to financial hardships (such as medical bills, lost income, and lost household contribution) but other hardships like physical and emotional pain and suffering. Depending on the severity of the injury, these losses can last well into the future and can cause significant setbacks.
A lawsuit can compensate Onglyza victims for a wide range of losses, both economic and non-economic, in an effort to make them whole again.
Talk To Our Attorneys If You Are Affected
If you or a loved one have taken Onglyza and suffered symptoms like heart failure, death, or another serious side effect, it is in your best interest to speak with a member of our legal team right away. One of our attorneys can evaluate your specific case, and let you know your options on how to proceed. Please call our office toll free at 844-307-7349 today for a free consultation.