Avandamet
Generic Name: Rosiglitazone
What is Avandamet?
Avandamet is an oral medication used to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes. It contains two drugs commonly used to lower blood sugar, rosiglitazone and metformin.What is the most important information I should know about Avandamet?
Avandamet is not meant to take the place of weight loss or diet and exercise. You should continue to follow the regimen your doctor recommends.Avandamet could cause a very rare but potentially fatal side effect known as lactic acidosis. It is caused by a buildup of lactic acid in the blood. The problem is most likely to occur in people whose liver or kidneys are not working well, and in those who have multiple medical problems, take several medications, or have congestive heart failure. The risk also is higher if you are an older adult or drink alcohol. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency that must be treated in a hospital.
Avandamet could also cause your body to keep extra fluid, which leads to swelling and weight gain. Extra body fluid can make heart problems worsen or lead to heart failure. Patients should watch for signs of heart failure such as weight gain, trouble breathing (especially when you lie down), and swelling (especially in your ankles or legs). It may also increase the risk angina (chest pain) or heart attack.
Macular edema (a buildup of fluid in part of the eye) may occur while on Avandamet. Patients with diabetes should have regular eye exams.
Avandamet may also cause weight gain, fractures in women, and a decrease in blood counts. Blood sugar and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) should be checked regularly.
Avandamet may promote ovulation in premenopausal women. Therefore, they have an increased risk for pregnancy.
Liver problems may occur; unexplained nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, anorexia, or dark urine should be reported to your doctor.
Who should not take Avandamet?
Do not take Avandamet if you have any form of heart failure or have kidney impairment.Use of Avandamet should be temporarily discontinued if you are undergoing radiocontrast studies or surgery.
You should not use Avandamet if you have type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes, or if you are already taking insulin.
You should not use Avandamet if you need to take medicine for congestive heart failure.
Do not take Avandamet if you have ever had an allergic reaction to rosiglitazone or metformin.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Avandamet?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Avandamet. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have heart, kidney, or liver problems; edema (swelling); or you are going to have a radiocontrast or surgical procedure.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Inadequately Controlled on Diet and Exercise
Adults: The recommended starting dose is 2 milligrams (mg) of rosiglitazone/500 mg of metformin once or twice daily. The dose may be increased by 2 mg/500 mg daily after 4 weeks. The maximum dose is 8 mg/2000 mg daily.
For other conditions like inadequately controlled of blood sugar on one drug therapy or when Avandamet in used with other product, your doctor will prescibe you the appropriate dose.
How should I take Avandamet?
Do not take more or less of this medication than directed by your doctor. Avandamet should be taken in divided doses with meals to reduce the possibility of nausea or diarrhea, especially during the first few weeks of therapy. Avandamet may start to work within the first week or two after you begin taking it, but it can take up to 3 months before the drug's full effects are seen. Be sure to check your blood sugar as your doctor recommends.What should I avoid while taking Avandamet?
Avoid drinking too much alcohol while taking Avandamet.Avandamet should not be used with nitrates.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Avandamet?
If Avandamet is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Avandamet with the following: alcohol; amiloride; calcium channel blockers (heart medications) such as nifedipine and verapamil; cimetidine; corticosteroids; decongestant, airway-opening drugs such as albuterol and pseudoephedrine; digoxin; estrogens; furosemide; gemfibrozil; isoniazid, a drug used for tuberculosis; morphine; niacin; nicotinic acid; nifedipine; oral contraceptives; phenothiazines; phenytoin; procainamide; quinidine; quinine; ranitidine; rifampin; steroids such as prednisone; thyroid hormones such as levothyroxine; tranquilizers such as chlorpromazine; triamterene; trimethoprim; vancomycin; or water pills (diuretics) such as amiloride, hydrochlorothiazide, and triamterene.What are the possible side effects of Avandamet?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, upset stomach, upper respiratory infection, dizziness, anemia, swelling, nasal inflammation, sinus inflammation, abdominal pain, joint pain, loose stools, constipation, fatigue, back pain, viral infection, increased blood pressure, low blood sugar
Symptoms of lactic acidosis may include: dizziness, extreme weakness or tiredness, lightheadedness, low body temperature, slow or irregular heartbeat, rapid breathing or trouble breathing, sleepiness, unexpected or unusual stomach discomfort, unusual muscle pain
Can I receive Avandamet if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Avandamet during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Your doctor may prescribe you insulin during pregnancy.What should I do if I miss a dose of Avandamet?
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Avandamet?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant container.
I'm Shereen A. Gharbia, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
