A study published online by the Journal of the American Medical Association found that people who take a new diabetes drug that is near Food and Drug Administration approval may face increased heart problems, strokes and death.

Two researchers examined clinical trials that were presented to the FDA. They found that taking the drug, called Pargluva, more than doubles the risk of life-threatening cardiovascular problems.

An FDA panel voted 8-1 to recommend approval of Pargluva. Bristol-Myers Squibb and Merck hope to bring it to the market later this year.

Pargluva, is part of a new class of drugs that seek to combat Type 2 diabetes, the most common form among Native Americans. It seeks to control fat, sugar and cholesterol levels.

Get the Story:
New Diabetes Drug Poses Major Risks, Panel Says (The Washington Post 10/21)
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Article Says Diabetes Pill Would Increase Coronary Risks (The New York Times 10/21)
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Get the Study:
Effect of Muraglitazar on Death and Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (October 2005)

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