Avandamet

Generic ingredients: Rosiglitazone maleate, Metformin hydrochloride

Why is Avandamet prescribed?

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. Avandamet replaces the need to take these two drugs separately. It is also used when treatment with metformin hydrochloride alone doesn't work. Avandamet is not, however, meant to take the place of weight loss or diet and exercise. You should continue to follow the regimen your doctor recommends.

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 to be used for energy. People who have type 2 diabetes do not make enough insulin or do not respond normally to the insulin their bodies make, causing a buildup of unused sugar in the bloodstream. Avandamet helps remedy this problem in two ways: by decreasing your body's production of sugar and making your body more sensitive to its own insulin supply. Avandamet does not increase the body's production of insulin.

Most important fact about Avandamet

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. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Symptoms of lactic acidosis may include:
  Dizziness, extreme weakness or tiredness, light-headedness, low body temperature, slow or irregular heartbeat, rapid breathing or trouble breathing, sleepiness, unexpected or unusual stomach discomfort (especially after you have been taking Avandamet for a while), unusual muscle pain