Metformin, the well-known drug often prescribed for Type 2 diabetes, was recalled by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on May 28, after testing found high levels of the carcinogen N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). The FDA is recalling all extended-release products containing metformin hydrochloride, including under the brand names Riomet, Glumetza, Fortamet, and Glucophage XR.
How is Bladder Cancer Linked to Metformin?
FDA agency tests revealed that samples of metformin contained NDMA amounts significantly higher than the recommended daily limit. NDMA can be produced both naturally and artificially and was formerly used to make rocket fuel and plastics. It is not currently produced or commercially used in the US, except for in laboratory research. In fact, its main use today is to induce tumor growth in experimental animals, and it has been known as a cancer risk for decades. An article from the 1970s stated that “NDMA has caused cancer in nearly every laboratory animal tested so far.”
NDMA can be found in pharmaceuticals for a number of reasons. The FDA has found in the past that NDMA formation has occurred due to the manufacturing, packaging, and storage conditions of the drug, as well as the chemical structure of the drug itself. Some research has even found that NDMA can be formed in the human body after ingestion.
People with Type 2 diabetes already have an approximately 40% increased chance of developing bladder cancer, but the NDMA levels in Metformin can further extend that risk. Various studies throughout the world have shown that there is a specific link between nitrosamines like NDMA and bladder cancer.
How Can We Help You?
Though Metformin has been approved as a safe drug to control high blood sugar since 1994, recent tests have shown that there are levels of NDMA that exceed the amount allowed by the law. Many diabetes patients have been treating their disease symptoms with Metformin for many years, and those who were diagnosed with bladder cancer deserve compensation. Our experienced attorneys at Kwartler Manus, LLC can help you get the money you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with bladder cancer after using a metformin drug, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. The cancer diagnoses listed below may also qualify:
- Breast cancer
- Colon Cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Intestinal cancer (both large and small intestine)
- Kidney cancer
- Leukemia
- Liver cancer
- Lung cancer (for non-smokers)
- Multiple myeloma
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Ovarian cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Thyroid cancer
- Uterine cancer
If you or someone you love has developed one of the above cancers after using a metformin hydrochloride drug, make sure to contact us at Kwartler Manus. Our dedicated legal team has an extensive background representing clients in similar cases and may be able to get compensation for your damages and protect others from future threats.
Don’t hesitate to pursue the justice you deserve to make up for these pharmaceutical companies’ mistakes. Contact us online or by phone at (267) 457-5570 now to schedule a free consultation.