A New Jersey federal court consolidated 55 Invokana lawsuits last month by transferring them to the District of New Jersey. Lawsuits from several states were consolidated including Invokana lawsuits filed in Missouri, Kentucky, Illinois, Minnesota, Virginia, and West Virginia. Invokana is an SGLT2 inhibitor used to treat Type 2 diabetes. The maker of the drug, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, has denied any wrongdoing.
However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Drug Safety Communication warning of dangerous conditions associated with taking Invokana. Patients and doctors were warned that a serious, life-threatening condition could develop as a result of taking Invokana.
Ketoacidosis and Invokana
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening condition that develops when cells do not receive a sufficient supply of glucose to break down to make energy. The cells begin to break down fat and muscle. As muscle and fat are broken down, ketones are released into the bloodstream causing too much acid to be in the bloodstream.
Because diabetic ketoacidosis is a life-threatening condition, it is extremely important for patients taking Invokana to understand and know the symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis.
- High ketone levels in the urine
- Fruity-scented breath
- Excessive thirst
- Vomiting and nausea
- Frequent urination
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Blurred vision
- High blood sugar levels
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Shortness of breath
Complications from diabetic ketoacidosis include swelling in the brain, low blood sugar, and low potassium levels. A person experiencing any of the above symptoms should see a doctor immediately.
FDA’s Multiple Warnings Regarding Invokana
The FDA’s most recent warning is not the first warning regarding the use of Invokana to treat Type 2 diabetes. On May 15, 2015, the FDA issued the first warning telling patients and doctors that Invokana had been linked to an increased risk of ketoacidosis. The second notice on December 4, 2015, warned of an increased risk of developing serious urinary tract infections when taking Invokana.
The FDA is considering regulatory action after identifying patients who developed pancreatitis while taking Invokana.
Invokana Lawsuits
Numerous Invokana lawsuits have been filed throughout the United States by consumers who have been hurt by this dangerous drug. Defective drugs cause injuries each day in the United States. Product liability attorneys help patients recover compensation from Big Pharma and corporations that are responsible for the manufacturing, marketing, and sale of defective drugs. Patients may be entitled to receive compensation for lost wages, medical bills, physical pain, and permanent disability.
If you have taken Invokana and developed ketoacidosis or another serious condition, you need to seek the advice of an experienced New Orleans defective drug attorney. The Invokana lawsuit attorneys at The Olinde Firm handle a variety of defective medical product and dangerous drug cases throughout the United States.
Contact Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm to request your free case evaluation and no-obligation legal consultation. You can reach our office by calling (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889. Call now to speak with a knowledgeable, compassionate representative who can help you.