Diabetes Meds Linked to Pancreatic Cancer

Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic disease affecting approximately 347 million people worldwide according to the World Health Organization. There are a variety of treatments available to those suffering from Type 2 diabetes, including a new class of medications called Incretin Mimetic drugs. These drugs are designed to stimulate the body to produce insulin after a meal, as it normally does in people who do not suffer from type 2 diabetes.

Unfortunately, a link between this new class of diabetes medications and instances of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer has been found and is currently under investigation by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. In 2013, a group of researchers examined pancreatic tissue samples that suggested dangerous, pre-cancerous cellular changes were taking place in individuals receiving Incretin Mimetic medications.

Drugs such as Onglyza and Victoza, both of which are in the class of Incretin Memetic medications, might be causing an increase in pancreatic toxicity which eventually leads to pancreatic cancer. We all must accept a certain threshold of side effects that come with the medications we are prescribed. Pancreatic cancer, however, is not a side effect we should accept.

We understand the obstacles and challenges of living with a chronic disease like type 2 diabetes. If you have been taking Onglyza or Victoza, give us a call or send us a message and tell us what you have experienced.

Source:JAMA Intern Med.2013 Apr 8;173(7):534-9.