European regulators dramatically succumbed to pressure from medical experts yesterday and ordered the suspension of a controversial diabetes drug.
The European Medicines Agency has faced criticism, notably from the British Medical Journal, for failing to take action against rosiglitazone – Avandia – amid concern about side-effects.
British regulators said the decision meant doctors now need to review any patients taking the drug and change them to another treatment.
The British Commission on Human Medicines had recommended this action in July, ruling there is an overall increased risk of heart attacks and strokes from taking the drug.
Professor Kent Woods, chief executive of the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, said: "We have been constantly monitoring the situation regarding rosiglitazone.
"Today’s suspension means that clinicians should review all patients currently on rosiglitazone and take appropriate action, according to the individual clinical situation, to change to another suitable treatment."
The decision was welcomed by the British Heart Foundation – but it warned patients not to stop taking the treatment without seeing a doctor.
Dr Mike Knapton, of the BHF, said: "People who currently take these medicines should now make an appointment to see their doctor to discuss alternative treatment.
"Because these medicines are effective at controlling your blood sugar it is important that you don’t stop taking it without speaking to your doctor first.
"If you have any concerns about your heart health, speak to your doctor."
Leave a Reply