First approved by the FDA in 2009 for the treatment of type II diabetes, Onglyza, active ingredient saxagliptin, is a popular prescription medication. Onglyza works by preventing the liver from creating excess sugar, and by helping the pancreas to secrete insulin. Despite being a favorite amongst patients and doctors throughout the U.S., Onglyza and other DPP-4 inhibitors have dangerous side effects.  

Risks Associated with Taking Onglyza

The current Food & Drug Administration medication guide for Onglyza carries a warning that taking Onglyza can lead to pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). And in April of 2015, the FDA also supported Onglyza carrying a safety warning for the risk of heart failure based on a finding that those who took Onglyza had a 27 percent greater risk of heart failure. In addition to pancreatitis and heart failure, another serious side effect of taking Onglyza is pancreatic cancer.  

Lawsuits Filed Against Onglyza’s Maker

Because many people took Onglyza without knowing of the associated risks of pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and heart failure, and suffered harm as a result, many have chosen to file lawsuits directly against Onglyza’s manufacturer, AstraZeneca. These lawsuits allege that Onglyza did not conduct proper safety tests prior to releasing the drug, or/and did not adequately provide warning of the drug’s risks.  

Why You Need a Defective Drug Attorney

Filing a lawsuit against the maker of a defective drug can yield damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, and other economic and noneconomic losses. But filing a lawsuit against a large pharmaceutical company can be complicated, and without a legal professional on your side, the chances of making a costly error are high. To improve your chances of recovering your full damages amount in a civil action against AstraZeneca, you need the representation of the experienced pharmaceutical litigation attorneys at Napoli Shkolnik, PLLC. To learn more about your right to file a claim, call us today and schedule your first consultation.