It’s not just adults who have experienced life-changing side effects from taking Abilify. Recently, the drug was linked to the development of Type 2 Diabetes in children. Otsuka Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Abilify, and Bristol-Squibb Meyer, the marketing partner, have been accused of failing to provide adequate warnings.
What Is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 Diabetes is more commonly found in adults. Type 2 Diabetes occurs because of the development of insulin resistance. This causes a build-up of sugar in the blood stream. Usually, this type of Diabetes is caused by a person who becomes overweight and who does not get enough exercise. If left untreated or uncontrolled, people with Type 2 Diabetes can develop neuropathy. It can even cause blindness and death.
The Risk Of Developing Type 2 Diabetes Skyrockets
When children take Abilify, there are two major concerns. First, think about all of the warnings that you hear in a commercial for a mental health drug. Most warn that the user could experience suicidal thoughts or severe depression. Young people often experience side effects that are more severe. This is concerning because often drugs like Abilify are given for reasons referred to as “off label.” This means that they are prescribed for health conditions for which the drug was not approved to treat. This puts more children at risk for experiencing these devastating side effects and for developing Type 2 Diabetes.
In October 2013, JAMA Psychiatry released a study that revealed that children taking the drug and other anti-psychotic medications have more than a 200% risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes. With Abilify, researchers believe the risk can be as high as 900%.
What Are The Signs Of Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 Diabetes is particularly devastating in children. If your child was taking or is currently taking Abilify and you notice the following symptoms, get medical care right away.
- Increased thirst.
- Frequent urination.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Weight gain.
- Increased hunger.
- Blurry vision.
- Slow healing sores.
- Darker patches of skin generally appearing near the armpits or on the neck.
Abilify Lawsuits Have Been Filed
Abilify lawsuits have been filed related to the development of Type 2 Diabetes in children. These lawsuits allege that the manufacturer and the marketing team knew of the risks, but minimized them when referring the medication to medical providers.
To determine whether you have a claim, you should speak with a lawyer who understands the Abilify lawsuits that have been filed. It’s important that your claim be handled carefully.
Contact Goldwater Law Firm to speak with an Abilify lawyer to find out if you would benefit from filing a lawsuit. You could be eligible to receive compensation because of the development of Type 2 Diabetes in your child. Type 2 Diabetes in children can be particularly dangerous and can even cause coma and death. Protect your child by knowing the signs of Type 2 Diabetes and immediately talk with your child’s doctor if you suspect there is a problem related to Abilify.