French company to go on trial over Mediator drug scandal The French pharmaceutical company Servier was due to go on trial on Monday over a diabetes drug, which is said to have caused up to 2000 deaths. According to an official report, there was evidence in 1999 that the "Mediator" drug could cause heart disease, but it stayed on the market in France for a further 10 years. Servier founder, 90-year-old Jacques Servier, was expected to appear in court. In 2000, there was a scientific study that demonstrated the side effects. Valvular heart diseases are affecting victims," said Martine Verdier, a lawyer representing victims. The Servier company is accused of misleading users over the content of the drug. Mediator was developed to treat diabetes, but millions of people misused it to shed weight. There is a chance today's trial opening may be delayed because of legal representations. More about: France, Health, Pharmaceutical companies, Trial