Avandia
Also see more information on Avandia Oral from the
First Databank
drug library.
Brand name:
Avandia
Pronounced: AH-van-DEE-ah
Generic name: Rosiglitazone maleate
Why is Avandia prescribed?
Avandia is used to hold down blood sugar levels in people with
type 2 diabetes (also known as "non-insulin dependent" or "adult
onset" diabetes).
Blood sugar levels are ordinarily controlled by the body's
natural supply of insulin, which helps sugar move out of the
bloodstream and into the cells. In type 2 diabetes, the buildup of
sugar in the blood is often due not to a lack of insulin, but to
the body's inability to make proper use of it. Avandia works first
by decreasing sugar production, then by helping the body make more
efficient use of whatever insulin is available. It does not
increase the actual amount of insulin in circulation.
Avandia is a new type of diabetes medication. It can be used
alone or in conjunction with insulin, metformin (Glucophage), or a
member of the sulfonylurea class of diabetes drugs (Diabinese,
Micronase, Orinase). It takes effect slowly. You may not see a
reduction in blood sugar levels for the first 2 weeks of therapy,
and it may take 2 to 3 months for the medication to deliver maximum
results.
Most important fact about Avandia
Always remember that Avandia is an aid to, not a substitute for,
good diet, weight loss, and exercise. Failure to follow a sound
diet and exercise plan can lead to serious complications, such as
dangerously high or low blood sugar levels. Remember, too, that
Avandia is not an oral form of insulin, and cannot be used in place
of insulin.
How should you take Avandia?
Your dose of Avandia may be taken once a day in the morning or
divided in half and taken in the morning and evening, with or
without food.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the
next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant
container.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Avandia.
-
More common side effects may include:
Back pain, fatigue, headache, high blood sugar, low blood
sugar, respiratory tract infections, sinus inflammation,
swelling
Page:
1
|
2
|
3
previous |
next
Also see more information on Avandia Oral from the
First Databank
drug library.
| 
Email this page
Printer friendly
Bookmark this page
