Personal Injury Law

Diabetes Drug Byetta Linked to Two Deaths

By Jeff Lowe, Esq.

At least two deaths have been linked to the diabetes drug Byetta, the Food and Drug Administration announced on Aug. 18.

Byetta, an injectable drug used to treat adults with type 2 diabetes, is made by San Diego-based Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. In October of last year, the FDA issued an alert indicating that it had reviewed 30 postmarketing reports of acute pancreatitis in patients taking Byetta, also known by the generic name exenatide.

On Aug. 18, the FDA announced that it had received reports of six cases of hemorrhagic or necrotizing pancreatitis in patients taking Byetta. All six required hospitalization. Although Byetta was discontinued for all six, two patients died.

Patients who are prescribed Byetta should seek prompt medical attention if they experience severe abdominal pain, with or without nausea and vomiting.

If you or someone you love has experienced hemorrhagic or necrotizing pancreatitis after taking Byetta, contact our drug defect lawyers at 877-678-3400. We have substantial experience representing clients who have had adverse reactions to prescription medications.

Full post as published by Missouri Injury Lawyer Blog on August 18, 2008 (boomark / email).