Diabetes drugs may be linked to pancreatic cancer

Conclusion This article presents important concerns that glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists and dipeptidylpeptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors could potentially increase the risk of inflammation and cancerous changes in the pancreas. The agencies that regulate medicines in Europe and the USA are aware of these issues, and told the BMJ that their analyses show increased reporting of pancreatic cancer among people taking these types of drugs. However, the agencies note that it has not been established whether these drugs directly cause the adverse effects seen in the pancreas. Both agencies are reviewing emerging evidence on safety in this area. For now, anyone with diabetes who has been prescribed these drugs and has concerns should speak with the healthcare professionals involved in their care. Do not stop taking any diabetes medication unless you are advised to do so by the doctor in charge of your care. If you stop taking this medication without medical advice, you are at a much higher risk of developing complications related to diabetes, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage and even blindness, than you are at risk of developing pancreatic cancer.   Analysis by Bazian. Edited by NHS Choices. Follow Behind the Headlines on Twitter. Links To The Headlines Diabetes drugs taken by thousands linked to cancer of the pancreas and other serious health problems. Daily Mail, June 10 2013
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Medication Diabetes QA articles Source Type: news