ype 2 diabetes medicine pioglitazone may be linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer

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Type 2 diabetes medicine pioglitazone may be linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer

Pioglitazone is an oral diabetes medicine that helps control blood sugar levels.It is used for people with type 2 diabetes. Pioglitazone is approved to improve blood sugar control, along with diet and exercise, in adults with type 2 diabetes. Pioglitazone works by increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin, a natural hormone that helps control blood sugar levels. Untreated, type 2 diabetes can lead to serious problems, including blindness, nerve and kidney damage, and heart disease.

A 10-year prospective cohort study was conducted in diabetic patients, exposed to pioglitazone compared to patients never exposed to pioglitazone.It was observed that the risk of bladder cancer increased with increasing dose and duration of pioglitazone use. The study conclude that pioglitazone may be associated with an increased risk in urinary bladder cancer,

Additional Information for Patients

· There may be an increased chance of having bladder cancer when you take pioglitazone.

· You should not take pioglitazone if you are receiving treatment for bladder cancer.

· Tell your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms of bladder cancer: blood or red color in urine; urgent need to urinate or pain while urinating; pain in back or lower abdomen.

· Talk to your healthcare professional if you have questions or concerns about pioglitazone medicines.

· Report side effects from the use of pioglitazone.

Additional Information for Healthcare Professionals

· Do not use pioglitazone in patients with active bladder cancer.

· Use pioglitazone with caution in patients with a prior history of bladder cancer. The benefits of glycemic control versus unknown risks for cancer recurrence with pioglitazone should be considered in patients with a prior history of bladder cancer.

· Counsel patients to report any signs or symptoms of blood in the urine, urinary urgency, pain on urination, or back or abdominal pain, as these may be due to bladder cancer.

· Encourage patients to read the Medication Guide they get with their pioglitazone medicine.

· Report adverse events involving pioglitazone.