Lipitor, or atorvastatin, is one of several medications known as “statin” drugs. These drugs are prescribed along with diet and exercise to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. This is also called “LDL cholesterol” or “bad cholesterol.”

Lipitor blocks the production of LDL cholesterol in the liver. This forces the liver to use cholesterol in the blood. As a result, the cholesterol levels in one’s blood are lowered.

Statins like Lipitor are widely used. In fact, nearly 21 million Americans were prescribed statins in 2011 alone, according to the New York Times. Forbes reports that Lipitor has surpassed $130 billion in total sales for its manufacturer, Pfizer, Inc.

Problems with Lipitor

Despite its popularity, research shows that Lipitor may carry a serious side effect among older women who use the product – the increased the risk of developing diabetes.

One study, by the University of Massachusetts Medical School, found a 48 percent increased risk of diabetes among women ages 46 to 79 who use statin drugs such as Lipitor.

Another study, published in The Lancet medical journal, found statin drug therapy to be associated with a nine percent increased risk for developing diabetes.

And the Journal of the American College of Cardiology said in 2011 that three large randomized clinical trials indicated that 80-mg doses of Lipitor were associated with a small but definite increased risk of new-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus.

In February 2012, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reacted to this mounting research by requiring labels for statin drugs such as Lipitor to indicate the possible risk of increased blood sugar levels and of being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Are You a Lipitor User Diagnosed with Diabetes?

The Driscoll Firm, LLC, currently is reviewing cases of women ages 46 and older who have been diagnosed with diabetes after taking Lipitor. In particular, you may have been prescribed this cholesterol-lowering medication prior to the FDA’s February 2012 label change and unaware of the risks you faced.

Our firm has a history of taking on major pharmaceutical companies and fighting to protect the rights of innocent consumers. We want to hear your story and explore the ways we can help you. Time is of the essence in cases alleging injuries from defective drugs, so contact The Driscoll Firm, LLC, immediately to get the legal attention you deserve.

Don’t wait to take action. Get started today.