Government Report Suggest Avandia be Removed from Market

The New York Times reported recently that a government report has suggested a link between Avandia and an increased risk of heart attacks and heart failure. Avandia, used to treat type 2 diabetes, was linked to just over 300 deaths during the third quarter of 2009 alone.

GlaxoSmithKline, who makes Avandia, has stated that they have done extensive research on the drug and have reached the conclusion that it does not damage the heart or lead to any increase in heart attacks. Sales of the drug have decreased since 2007 when an independent panel suggested the possibility that it might contribute to heart damage. Despite those findings, the FDA decided to allow the drug to remain on the market.

The authors of the current government study have suggested that the drug be removed from the market. The FDA also cites several conflicting studies that make conclusions about any possible link between Avandia and heart trouble difficult to discern. The main concern of the government will remain whether or not GlaxoSmightKline has been up front with the possible dangers of the drug. No word has yet been issued about the future of the drug and its availability.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/20/health/policy/20avandia.html?pagewanted=1&th&emc=th