Many studies have indicated that women who take cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins, such as Lipitor and Crestor, are at higher risk for developing Type II diabetes. The following are commonly asked questions about this newly identified problem:
Who are the People Most at Risk of Developing Diabetes from Statin Use?
Post-menopausal women, especially those who also have the following: excess weight, high blood sugar, elevated triglycerides (a type of blood fat), and high blood pressure.
How Great is the Risk of Developing Diabetes from Statins?
Certain women who take statins, specifically, those women with a bone mass index of less than 25, were almost 100% more likely to report developing Type II diabetes than women who did not take statins. This information comes from a major 2012 study by the University of Massachusetts Medical School.
Should I Stop Taking Statins?
Never discontinue medications without first discussing the matter with your doctor. If you have concerns, you should bring up the risk of diabetes and get your doctor’s recommendation.
What are the Symptoms of Type II Diabetes?
Symptoms include increased thirst, increased hunger (especially after eating), dry mouth, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss (even though you are eating and feel hungry), fatigue, and blurred vision or headaches.
What Legal Help is Available to Women Harmed by Lipitor and Other Statins?
If you are a woman who was diagnosed with Type II diabetes after taking statins, you may wish to contact Janet, Janet & Suggs’ personal injury attorneys, because we focus on lawsuits involving dangerous medicines. The makers of statins have a legal responsibility to inform doctors and patients about risky side-effects of their drugs.