FDA Rules on Avandia®

The Food and Drug Administration has sharply limited access to the diabetes drug, Avandia®. The drug has been under investigation for months because of concerns that it increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes in certain patients. Patients currently taking the drug will need to sign a waiver that states that they understand the risks associated with taking it before they can get their prescription refilled. New patients will not be able to receive the drug unless their doctor certifies that they are unable to control their blood sugar levels with other therapies and that medical problems keep them from being able to take other medications. FMA has identified the patients that are currently taking Avandia® and will be contacting them to take appropriate action. For patient information about Avandia®, please go to  http://www.avandia.com/pdf/KAV280_Final%20Sample_MedGuide.pdf. Common questions may have answers at http://www.avandia.com/.