At least two cases have been filed against GlaxoSmithKline PLC (GSK) about the company’s diabetes drug Avandia. The lawsuits allege that GSK caused patients to suffer heart attacks

Shareholders in GSK. also filed a lawsuit, claiming the company misled investors about the safety of the drug. The lawsuit seeks class-action status and alleges the company failed to acknowledge a link between Avandia and higher risk of heart attacks.

On May 29, 2007, Sharon Ann Dabon filed a suit against GSK claiming Avandia caused her to suffer injuries like heart injury and liver failure. Another case, filed June 1, 2007 by Benjamin Sarconi, claims Avandia caused a heart attack and congestive heart failure.

Some attorneys said the personal injury lawyers for those filing Avandia lawsuits may have difficulty proving the drug caused heart problems because diabetes itself increases a person’s risk for heart attacks.

Source: “Jeanne Whalen,” Shareholders sue Glaxo over Avandia disclosure,” Wall Street Journal, June 13, 2007.