Byetta Claims Lawyers

Mobile, Alabama

On October 16, 2007, the FDA announced a suspected tie between the diabetes drug exenatide (sold under the trade name Byetta and manufactured by Amylin Pharmaceuticals and Eli Lilly) and acute Pancreatitis.

Acute Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, and often passes on its own, but in 20 % of cases, it can have severe complications.

Symptoms to Look For

If you are taking the drug Byetta and experience abdominal pain, especially if this pain worsens when you eat, and is accompanied by:

Swollen and tender abdomen
Nausea
Vomiting
Fever
Rapid Pulse
A sick appearance or unhealthy pallor

You should see a doctor immediately.

Severe cases of Pancreatitis may cause dehydration and low blood pressure, followed by the failure of the heart, lungs, or kidneys. The pancreas can bleed, leading to toxic shock and death.

What Byetta Is and How It Works

Byetta (exenatide) is a derivative of the venom of the Gila monster, which is as toxic as that of the diamondback rattlesnake.

It was the first approved drug in a class called incretin mimetics, which work by stimulating the pancreas to secrete insulin when blood sugar levels are high. It is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, in which the body has difficulty controlling its blood sugar levels because it does not use insulin normally.

Byetta is injected subcutaneously, usually twice a day. Previously identified side effects included:

Upset stomach
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Jitteriness
Acid stomach

None of which were considered severe. However, it was noted at least in June of 2007 that patients experiencing severe stomach pain should contact a doctor immediately.

We do not know to what extent the manufacturers of Byetta have been aware of the pancreatitis side effect or for how long. Nor do we know what level of side effects will eventually come to light for this drug that has only been in use since 2005.

If you or a loved one has suffered pancreatitis as a side effect of taking Byetta, please contact our Mobile, Alabama drug side effects attorneys today to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation.

If you or a loved one has suffered a severe side effect or died after taking any of the above drugs or using any of these medications or medical devices, please contact our Mobile, Alabama pharmaceutical injury attorneys today to schedule your free consultation.

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