Invokana
is a SGLT2 inhibitor which is used to help adults deal with type II
diabetes. The drug has quickly become a leading choice for those who
suffer from Type II diabetes.
Manufactured
by Johnson & Johnson, the drug was sold as an advanced alternative
to the existing diabetes medications. Unfortunately, this drug did not
prove effective to all patients. Invokana inhibits the re-absorption of
glucose (sugar) into the bloodstream, and thus sugar is forced through
the kidneys. Consequently, the body begins to eat up the stored fat
which leads to weight loss. But there is a darker side of the story.
Invokana use creates an excessive amount of ketones and leads to severe
complications.
There
are law firms that represent people who have suffered as a result of
taking Invokana. Pharmaceutical manufacturers, in this case Johnson
& Johnson, are responsible for causing these deadly effects and
patients have filed for invokana settlements.
The FDA has linked the following to Invokana:
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis
When
the body has too little insulin, it fails to break down the sugar as a
fuel source. As an alternative, the fats are broken down for energy.
Breaking down fat results in the production of “ketones,” which
accumulates in the blood and become toxic. Initial warning signs may
include stomach pain, fruity-smelling breath, unusual fatigue, and
frequent vomiting.
- Acute Kidney Injury
The
FDA strengthened an existing acute kidney injury warning in June 2016
that was in place for Invokana. When the kidneys fail to perform, waste
products build up in the body and can cause severe conditions such as
nausea, swelling, confusion and even seizures or coma.
- Blood Infection and Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Blood
and kidney infections have been studied to be linked with Invokana.
Blood infections are regularly accompanied by fever, chills, and higher
heart rate. UTIs also produce burning sensation while urinating, blood
in the urine, and pain in the pelvic area.
- Acute Pancreatitis
In
2016, reports of acute pancreatitis were revealed in Invokana users.
When the pancreas becomes swollen or inflamed, it means that it can no
longer produce insulin and can result in severe health problems or even
death.
- Amputations
Because
excess sugar injures blood vessel walls, diabetic patients are often at
risk for nerve and foot damage. With Invokana, these chances get nearly
double. Signs generally include sores, infections, and pain.
Given the nature of the Invokana settlement lawsuits,
claimholders have to wait for the first bellwether trials to finish
before gaining insight into potential settlements. Scheduled for 2019,
the first bellwether trials are getting underway.
Product liability lawyers for Invokana users
When filing an Invokana lawsuit, the four following aspects should to qualify for a favorable outcome:
- injured or suffered physical damages
- Invokana is a defective product
- injuries were caused by taking Invokana
- patients were taking Invokana as it was intended
Right to financial compensation
The
pharmaceutical companies should be held responsible for the damage
their drugs cause. Patients might be entitled for the costs linked with
the injuries such as:
- Past and future medical care
- Wages lost since being injured
- Long-term pain and suffering
- Loss of future salary or earning potential
- Any financial losses accrued from the injuries
