Avandia Diabetes Drug May Cause Osteoporosis

December 2007

Researchers have discovered that the diabetes drug, Avandia, may have a new risk added to its already deadly list – osteoporosis. Recently cited for its side effects of heart failure and heart attack, a new study has linked Avandia to an increase in bone thinning.

The new study provides the first evidence that Avandia may have a direct connection to the weakening of bone structures and osteoporosis. GlaxoSmithKline, manufacturer of Avandia, has previously acknowledged the drug increases bone fractures in women.

Approved to treat Type II diabetes, Avandia came under fire in May 2007 after a study found both heart failure and heart attack were increased in Avandia patients. In August, Avandia received a black box warning label for heart failure. In November, the Food and Drug Administration also added increased risk of heart attack to its already strong warning label.