In February, 2014, an article titled “Statin treatment and new-onset diabetes: A review of proposed mechanisms.” appearing in the medical journal Metabolism discusses the role of statin use in new onset diabetes. Statin drugs are cholesterol-lowering medications including Lipitor, and are among the most widely-prescribed drugs in the world.
This research team, led by M. Brault states that “New-onset diabetes has been observed in clinical trials and meta-analyses involving statin therapy.” In an attempt to elucidate the biochemical mechanism by which statin use contributes to diabetes onset, the team suggests that “First, certain statins affect insulin secretion through direct, indirect or combined effects on calcium channels in pancreatic β-cells. Second, reduced translocation of glucose transporter 4 in response to treatment results in hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia. Third, statin therapy decreases other important downstream products, such as coenzyme Q10, farnesyl pyrophosphate, geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate, and dolichol; their depletion leads to reduced intracellular signaling. Other possible mechanisms implicated in the effect of statins on new-onset diabetes are: statin interference with intracellular insulin signal transduction pathways via inhibition of necessary phosphorylation events and reduction of small GTPase action; inhibition of adipocyte differentiation leading to decreased peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein which are important pathways for glucose homeostasis; decreased leptin causing inhibition of β-cells proliferation and insulin secretion; and diminished adiponectin levels.”
Of course, Brault et al. (2014) are cautious to write-off statin use with the increased risk for diabetes posed considering the dramatic benefit these drugs have in relation to heart disease and cholesterol level adjustment and maintenance. Sadly, however, a number of people have used Lipitor and other similar drugs unaware of the risk for diabetes due to a failure to warn on the part of the manufacturer. Every patient deserves to know all possible risks and benefits associated with any drug ingested.
As a result of this failure to warn, a number of Lipitor diabetes lawsuits have been filed. If you or a loved one used Lipitor and suffered diabetes as a result, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation. For a free, no-obligation case consultation, contact our team of Lipitor lawyers at the information provided below. We have the experience, resources, and skills required to win the justice you deserve. Call today and see how we can help.
(855) 452 – 5529
Our Lipitor Lawsuit Information page is a great place to start if you have any questions about Lipitor.