Avandia (Rosiglitazone), was created and marketed by GlaxoSmithKline, and was designed to treat people with Type 2 Diabetes in helping to control their blood-sugar level.
Although Avandia has been greatly beneficial for many people, it has also brought unwanted side effects to some.
In 2005, GlaxoSmithKline performed an Avandia study and reported preliminary results to the Food and Drug Administration ("FDA"). Then, in August 2006, they provided the FDA with a more complete version of the study, which showed a 31% higher risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks, due to obstruction of blood flow.
GlaxoSmithKline was aware of the dangers posed by Avandia and various studies were made available to them as well. In May, 2007, Dr. Steven E. Nissen, a prominent cardiologist associated with the Cleveland Clinic, published a study in the New York England Journal of Medicine. Dr. Nissen's study revealed a 43% higher risk of heart attack for those taking Avandia compared to people taking other diabetes drugs or no diabetes medication. Further, Dr. Nissen's analysis showed a 64% elevated risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
Between August 20 and November 13, 2007, an inspection was conducted at GlaxoSmithKline. The inspection revealed a failure to report data relating to clinical experience, along with other data and information for Avandia.
Based on the representations made by GlaxoSmithKline and the information on the Avandia label, millions of people ingested Avandia believing that the drug would be safe and effective.
"As a result of GlaxoSmithKline's representations, our clients ingested Avandia, suffered heart-related problems, such as heart attacks, and sustained physical and financial damages including pain and suffering", stated Ross Cellino. "Cellino & Barnes has already filed many lawsuits for our Avandia victims, with more being evaluated and prepared for suit," stated Steve Barnes. |