Xigduo relies on the kidneys to remove sugar from the blood, which may increase the risk of kidney failure. Recently, lawsuits have been filed by people who took diabetes drugs and developed kidney failure.
Need a Texas Xigduo Lawyer? Collen A. Clark is a true advocate for his clients and is passionate about helping Texans that have been injured or wronged. If you or a loved one was diagnosed with kidney failure or ketoacidosis, you should contact our lawyers immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit.
Xigduo XR
Xigduo XR is a diabetes drug that combines dapagliflozin and extended-release metformin. It belongs to a class of drugs that control blood-sugar levels by blocking reabsorption of glucose back into the bloodstream and forcing the kidneys to excrete glucose in urine.
What is the problem?
Having diabetes is a risk-factor for kidney problems. Over time, diabetes slowly destroys the kidneys, causing nephropathy. Therefore, patients on Xigduo must carefully consider the risks vs. benefits of potentially increasing these risks. Diabetes is also a risk-factor for kidney stones, but Xigduo may actually decrease the risk of kidney stones by diluting the urine.
Xigduo Not Recommended for Patients With Kidney Problems
Because Xigduo relies on the kidneys to work, it is not recommended for people with moderate to severe kidney problems. People with mild kidney problems — especially those over 65 years old — also face a higher risk of dehydration (loss of water and salt), which can lead to renal impairment.
Xigduo Dehydration Can Damage Kidneys
Xigduo is a diuretic that increases the frequency and amount of urination. Patients who lose too much fluid and don’t drink enough water can develop dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, blood pressure drops and the amount of blood in the body decreases. This prevents the kidneys from doing their job. Dehydration can also damage delicate structures inside the kidneys and cause kidney failure.
FDA Warning for Xigduo
In December 2015, the FDA also warned that Xigduo may increase the risk of kidney failure due to severe urinary tract infections that spread to the kidneys (called pyelonephritis). The agency received several reports of patients who were hospitalized or needed dialysis.
What is Kidney Failure?
Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys perform 15% or less of their normal function. It involves severe organ damage and can only be treated with dialysis or a kidney transplant. The symptoms of kidney failure appear as waste products build up in the bloodstream and poison the body. These symptoms may include:
- Itching and dry skin
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea and vomiting
- Malaise (generally feeling sick)
- Feeling tired and weak
- Weight-loss
- Confusion
- Headaches
- And more
Have Lawsuits Been Filed?
Xigduo belongs to a class of diabetes drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors. The most popular drug in this class, Invokana, is made by Janssen Pharmaceuticals. In December 2014, a lawsuit (PDF) was filed by a man from Tennesssee who developed kidney failure. He accuses Janssen of failing to adequately warn about this side effect.
Need a Xigduo Lawyer in Texas?
Collen A. Clark is a true advocate for his clients and is passionate about helping Texans that have been injured or wronged.
Collen’s amazing success in the courtroom and well known dedication to his clients has earned him the recognition of his peers as one of The Top Trial Lawyers in Texas.”
The Clark Firm has assembled a team of trial lawyers with more than 100 years experience, participation in over 600 jury trials and $260 million in verdicts and/or settlements. Please use the form below to contact our Texas Xigduo lawyers for a free lawsuit review.