Diabetic patients taking Actos® or Avandia® may have a greater risk for eye problems than patients taking other drugs, according to a British study. The study was published June 11 in the Archives of Internal Medicine.
“Patients who received a thiazolidinedione were at two- to three-fold increased risk of developing macular edema,” said lead researcher Dr. Iskandar Idris, an associate professor in diabetes medicine at the University of Nottingham.
The findings were based on an observational study of about 100,000 patients.
“More aggressive management of risk factors for macular edema should be implemented in patients who take thiazolidinedione. In addition, routine screening for visual acuity should be performed during routine diabetes review, especially for patients who take thiazolidinediones,” Idris said.
Macular edema is an eye condition caused by leaking blood vessels. It occurs when the macula, a small area in the center of the retina swells and fails to work properly.
Macular edema can be treated via laser surgery and injections, but it can cause blindness in some patients.
Actos® and Avandia® have also been linked to an increase in the risk for heart attack. The FDA reported, last year, that Actos® may also increase the risk for bladder cancer in some patients.
Source: HealthDay
If your or someone you love has been diagnosed with macular edema or another side effect while taking Actos®, you may be eligible for compensation.
To learn more, schedule a free case review with an injury lawyer at the Flood Law Group today.