Copyright (c) 2008 Katie Kelley
In 2005, Eli Lilly and Amylin Pharmaceuticals, together released a type 2 diabetes drug known as Byetta (exenatide). The drug acts as a glucose controller for non-insulin dependent diabetics.
Under investigation, the drug is at the center of a controversy including receiving attention from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after several individuals were hospitalized for serious risks. The FDA announced it would be increasing the warnings on the drug to include the risk of fatal pancreas conditions including hemorrhagic pancreatitis, inflammation of the pancreas also associated with bleeding, and necrotizing pancreatitis, a pancreas that becomes inflamed and attempts to destroy itself.
Two of the six patients that were hospitalized in August 2008 from the drug's dangers died because of their conditions. The drug had an increase on its precautions labeling in October 2007 after 30 cases of acute pancreatitis developed among Byetta patients.
Side Effects of Byetta
The drug assists in insulin production from the pancreas and is described as an "injectable pen" that is used one hour prior to eating a meal and should be administered twice a day, according to manufacturers. The drug can be administered directly under the skin usually in the upper arm or thigh or the stomach area, but a spot should be predetermined with a physician.
There are several common side effects that are associated with consumption of the drug including:
* hunger
* headache
* vomiting
* feeling jittery
* dyspepsia
* diarrhea
* dizziness
While the above side effects are considered normal for a patient to experience, the following side effects have been associated with what Byetta's manufacturers consider "rare" side effects although a medical professional should be consulted immediately. Additional severe side effects are:
* hives
* difficulty breathing
* swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat
* pain in the upper stomach
* pain in the back
* nausea/vomiting
* increased heart rate
These dangers may lead to additional fatalities and patients are advised to discontinue use immediately while also consulting their physician.
Byetta Legal Consultation
Byetta patients who have suffered from any of the above symptoms may be at risk for pancreatitis and should consult medical assistance immediately. Additionally, consulting with a pharmaceutical attorney will increase the potential for receiving monetary compensation for the damages caused by risks. The opportunity for becoming involved with a Byetta class action lawsuit can be discussed with a knowledgeable lawyer, many of whom offer a free legal consultation to victims.
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For more information on Byetta, link to http://byetta.legalview.com/. Also learn about other legal issues affecting millions of Americans such as the potential
Zimmer Durom cup recall or the antibiotic
Levaquin side effects.
