FDA Investigates Micardis, Cozaar, Avapro, Diovan and Other ARB's for Cancer Risks
The U.S. Food and Drug Adminstration (FDA) is investigating whether commonly used blood pressure medicines, known as ARB's, may increase the risk of cancer.
The new review began after a new study suggested the medicines could increase cancer risks for those that take the, according to the New Jersey Star-Ledger.
Angiotensin Recepter Blockers (ARBs) are used by patients to treat high blood pressure and the class of drugss includes the top-selling druges Cozaar and Avapro as well as Atacand, Benicar, Diovan, Micardis, and Teveten. The FDA review is examining, among other things, the same Micardis side effects we reported on earlier this month.
As we have stated before, patients are urged to continue taking the drugs, at least until they have a chance to consult with their doctors about other medicines.
Legal analysis by Shawn Cantley [profile], Shawn's Mail:
Drug manufacturers owe those taking their medicines a duty not to design or manufacture unreasonably dangerous drugs as well as to warn users of the potential dangers of their medicines. Breaching those duties can result in the manufacturer facing civil liability for any injuries they cause.
If ARB's do turn out to increase cancer risks, their makers could face such liability. More facts would be necessary to know the extent of civil liability, if any. If you or someone you know have been inured by these types of drugs, you might consider speaking with a products liability attorney that specializes in dangerous drugs. They can provide you with counsel, help you determine if you have a case, and if so, how to proceed.
