Lipitor® is one of the cholesterol-reducing drugs known as statins. In 2012, the Food and Drug Administration reported on serious health risks for patients using statins, particularly women, including declining glycemic control and a sharply-heightened risk for developing type 2 diabetes. The risk largely exists for women with excess weight, elevated triglycerides, or high blood pressure. Packaging for Lipitor® and other statins was updated at that time to address these concerns.

Before the labeling adjustment, the label on Lipitor® failed to warn patients of the potential link between blood sugar level changes and Lipitor® use. Despite early research indicating that Lipitor was linked to development of type 2 diabetes in women, the drug was marketed as safe. Lipitor® is prescribed primarily for cholesterol management. Pfizer, Inc., the manufacturer, also markets Lipitor® as a drug that lowers the risk of stroke, heart attack, and chest pains in patients at risk for cardiovascular disease.

Never, of course, stop using any prescribed medication without first consulting your physician.

If Lipitor® was prescribed to you or to someone you love, and type 2 diabetes developed, get the legal help you need right away from an experienced personal injury attorney. You shouldn’t be the one who pays when a big pharmaceutical corporation puts profits over public safety. A good personal injury lawyer will evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you win compensation for your ongoing medical expenses, lost wages, and more. There are strict time limits for filing product liability claims, so if you’ve been injured, act now. In the San Diego area, if you or a member of your family has been injured using any pharmaceutical product, contact experienced California personal injury attorney Gary Sernaker at (858) 509-0188, or email him at Gsernaker@gmail.com to discuss your rights and options under California law.