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Lipitor And Diabetes

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Harmful Side Effects Of Lipitor

Lipitor belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which are prescribed to lower cholesterol levels in the blood in order to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack. Lipitor is manufactured by Pfizer, a major pharmaceutical company, and is one of the top selling drugs of all time. While Lipitor has been extremely effective in lowering cholesterol, it has been known to increase the risk for developing type 2 diabetes, particularly in women over the age of 50.

Diabetes occurs because of defects in the body’s ability to produce or use insulin, an essential hormone for converting food into energy. If the pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin or if cells do not respond appropriately to insulin, blood sugar levels get too high. This leads to serious health problems. There is evidence that statins, including Lipitor, raise blood sugar levels and therefore increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This means that if a patient is prescribed Lipitor, their blood sugar levels need to be monitored consistently.

Lawsuits Against Pfizer

In 2012 the FDA issued a warning that some cholesterol reducing statins, including Lipitor, may elevate blood sugar levels, increasing the risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Pfizer was ordered to include warnings on Lipitor’s label and to warn physicians and consumers about these dangers. A growing number of lawsuits have been directed toward Pfizer, claiming that Pfizer has failed to adequately warn doctors and patients about the risks in taking Lipitor, and that even after the FDA made this knowledge public, the warning on the label is still vague.

Taking Legal Action

Diabetes is a life-long diagnosis and puts you at risk for other serious health problems such as blindness, kidney disease, and even loss of limbs. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes after taking Lipitor, you should be compensated for the permanent health issues resulting from this negligence. Our attorneys will clarify your legal options and the deadlines in filing a lawsuit for Lipitor, and will help you get the compensation you deserve.