The National Cancer Institute estimates that nearly 15,000 deaths occurred in 2011 from bladder cancer. It is important to know that if you have developed bladder cancer after the use of Actos, you may be entitled to compensation. The defective drug injury lawyers at our law firm can help protect your rights and secure the compensation that you deserve.
Aaron M. Levine & Associates is a premiere law firm representing clients nationwide in defective drug and defective device claims. We take a vigorous and assertive approach to representing our clients. With our experience in client service, you can expect to receive individualized attention from your attorney in your Actos case. Our firm is an industry leader in defective drug litigation and we work diligently to hold pharmaceutical companies accountable for promoting unsafe drugs.
From our office in Washington, D.C., we represent clients Maryland, Virginia, California, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Florida, Washington, Texas, Massachusetts and throughout the nation.
What Is Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer occurs when cancerous tissues form within the bladder, which is the organ that stores urine. Types of cancers can include:
- Transitional cell carcinomas (TCC): A type of bladder cancer that begins in cells that make up the inner lining of the bladder and constitutes more than 90 percent of bladder cancers
- Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC): A type of bladder cancer that begins in the bladder in thin and flat cells and constitutes about 5 percent of bladder cancer cases.
- Adenocarcinoma: A type of bladder cancer that begins in the bladder cells, and then releases mucus and other dangerous fluids and constitutes 2 percent of bladder cancers.
Most individuals diagnosed with bladder cancer have transitional cells, which are cells in the lining of the bladder that can be found in the urethra area, bladder or in the renal pelvic area (an area of the kidney that is shaped somewhat like a funnel that holds and drains urine). With transitional cells, they can change shape, stretch and move without breaking apart.
Recent FDA Drug Safety Communication Regarding Actos and Bladder Cancer
In late 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a safety communication regarding the use of Actos (pioglitazone) and an increased risk of bladder cancer.
The FDA warned of the danger of Actos bladder cancer in a study titled "Risk of Bladder Cancer Among Diabetic Patients Treated With Pioglitazone." The ongoing 10-year study included nearly 200,000 patients who were older than the age of 40, with no prior history of bladder cancer. Findings from the interim five-year analysis showed that those who have taken Actos for longer than 12 months are at an increased risk of developing bladder cancer. The results also showed an increased risk of bladder cancer at higher cumulative dose of Actos exposure. The Actos bladder cancer risk increased in cumulative doses of more than 28,000 mg, or approximately 30 mg per day of Actos intake.
Please read more information about bladder cancers statistics from the National Cancer Institute.
Contact Our Nationwide Defective Drug Injury Lawyers
It is important to make certain that your rights are protected. An experienced attorney at our firm will represent your interests and help you recover the money that you are entitled to. Contact us at 888-564-9305 to schedule a free case evaluation.
