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Speaking of Avandia…
GlaxoSmithKline, the maker of the controversial diabetes drug, is currently running a trial to test Avandia against Actos another medication for type 2 diabetes.
But they’ve hit a little snag.
Two investigative sites have withdrawn from the trial. The reason: poor enrollment.
What? They can’t convince type 2 diabetics to take a dangerous drug for a couple of years to prove that it’s not THAT much more dangerous than another drug?
An official from one of those sites claims that the “safety debate” was not an issue. But each of the subjects has to sign an informed-consent agreement that lists these possible side effects that might be caused by one or both of the drugs:
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Blurred vision due to swelling
- Weight gain
- Hives or rash (which may be itchy)
- Bone fractures
- Erectile dysfunction
- Joint pain
- Constipation
There’s also a note that says GSK researchers have analyzed safety information from trials they’ve conducted, and results suggest that Avandia increases risk of heart attack.
Gee, I’d really like to be in your new trial, GSK, but I’ve got this life I’m leading and I’d rather not interrupt it with a heart attack.
To Your Good Health,
Jenny Thompson
Source:
“Glaxo Struggles to Recruit Patients for Avandia Trial” Ed Silverman, Pharmalot, 5/20/10, pharmalot.com
