FDA Announces Ongoing Safety Review of Hypertension Drug – Benicar

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is evaluating data from two clinical trials in which patients with type 2 diabetes taking the blood pressure medication Benicar (an angiotensin-receptor blocker) displayed a higher rate of death from a cardiovascular cause.

Benicar Side Effects

During the clinical trials, originally conducted to determine whether Benicar could slow the progression of kidney disease, unexpected results showed an increased risk of heart failure, stroke and sudden death among type 2 diabetes patients who were taking Benicar when compared to patients taking a placebo.

The FDA plans to review the primary data and is considering additional research to assess the adverse side effects of Benicar. However, the agency is encouraging patients not to discontinue the use of Benicar until further notice and to immediately report any adverse side effects.

Benicar Lawsuits

Benicar is manufactured by Daiichi Sankyo. The pharmaceutical company has not commented on the latest data involving the drug, but could be facing a high number of personal injury and defective drug lawsuits, depending on the FDA's ruling.

If you or a loved one has suffered heart failure, stroke or sudden death while on Benicar, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering. The experienced lawyers and compassionate staff representing Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz are adept at dealing with personal injuries and wrongful death caused by defective drugs as a result of manufacturer negligence. To learn about your legal rights as a defective drug victim, please call AWKO Law today at (888) 255-2956.