In a recent court battle, thousands of British families could be deprived compensation for the death of a relative due to the diabetes drug Avandia. This is despite the UK maker agreeing to pay billions in settlement claims in the US. In September 2010, Avandia’s license was revoked due to numerous claims that the drug caused heart complications, such as heart attacks. Although this is common knowledge, doctors in the US are still able to prescribe the medication, although not to those already suffering from heart problems.
GlaxoSmithKline, the manufacture of Avandia, has admitted to obscuring the data which highlighted the harmful side effects of the drug – however, GSK still won’t settle UK claims without a court battle. Solicitors have been left reeling after stating that the majority of cases could be settled successfully but they have to prove their case with substantial evidence, which includes medical opinion.
The drug was first launched into the NHS in 2000 and was offered as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, in patients whose glucose levels were difficult to maintain with standard drugs. It was offered as a solo drug, or in addition to regular diabetic medications – metformin and sulphonylurea drugs. It was created to reduce the body’s resistance to insulin.
Initially, Avandia showed a positive impact on the condition but there were soon warning signs. In early trials which involved 28,000 people, it was discovered that the drug could cause heart attacks. In 2010, further studies showed that patients were 27 percent more likely to suffer a stroke, 25 percent more likely to have heart failure and 14 percent more likely to die. GSK still maintains its stance on the matter – which has been on-going for several years even though many claims have already been settled in the States.
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