What is Avandamet?
Avandamet (rosiglitazone maleate/metformin) is a medication used to help control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes.
It contains two active ingredients: rosiglitazone and metformin.
Rosiglitazone helps your body use insulin more effectively, while metformin reduces the amount of sugar your liver produces.
Avandamet is usually taken by people who have not been able to control their blood sugar with other diabetes medications or who are already taking rosiglitazone.
It is important to note that Avandamet is not for people with type 1 diabetes or a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis.
How Does Avandamet Work?
Avandamet works by combining two different medicines to help control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.
The first medicine, rosiglitazone, helps your body use its natural insulin more effectively, which helps lower blood sugar levels.
The second medicine, metformin, reduces the amount of sugar your liver makes and also helps your body use sugar better.
Together, these ingredients help manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, especially when diet and exercise alone aren’t enough.
Dosage Information and Usage
Dosage Form and Strengths of Avandamet
- 2 mg/500 mg: Pale pink, oval tablet debossed with “gsk” on one side and “2/500” on the other.
- 4 mg/500 mg: Orange, oval tablet debossed with “gsk” on one side and “4/500” on the other.
- 2 mg/1,000 mg: Yellow, oval tablet debossed with “gsk” on one side and “2/1000” on the other.
- 4 mg/1,000 mg: Pink, oval tablet debossed with “gsk” on one side and “4/1000” on the other.
Usage
Avandamet should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually in divided doses with meals to help manage blood sugar levels.
Your doctor will start you on the lowest recommended dose of rosiglitazone and may adjust the dose based on your individual needs.
It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely and continue with your recommended diet and exercise plan to achieve the best results.
Regular blood tests will be needed to monitor your liver, kidneys, and blood sugar levels while using Avandamet.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose—never take two doses at once.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Upset stomach
- Cold-like symptoms
- Headache
- Joint aches
- Dizziness
Serious but Rare Side Effects
- New or worsening heart failure
- Heart attack
- Swelling (edema) due to fluid retention
- Weight gain (may be serious for people with heart problems)
- Liver problems (e.g., nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, unusual tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine, yellowing of skin or eyes)
- Macular edema (swelling in the back of the eye leading to vision changes)
- Fractures (especially in the hand, upper arm, or foot)
- Low red blood cell count (anemia)
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Ovulation leading to increased chance of pregnancy in premenopausal women
The information above does not list all possible side effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any side effects not listed. You or your doctor may report side effects to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings and Precautions
- Lactic Acidosis: Lactic acidosis is a rare but serious condition where lactic acid builds up in the bloodstream faster than it can be removed, leading to a life-threatening situation. Metformin, a component of Avandamet, can accumulate and cause lactic acidosis, especially in those with kidney problems. Symptoms include muscle pain, trouble breathing, and stomach pain. This condition requires immediate medical attention, as it can be fatal in about 50% of cases.
- Renal Function Monitoring: Kidney function should be checked before starting Avandamet and monitored regularly thereafter. Impaired kidney function increases the risk of lactic acidosis due to metformin accumulation. In cases where kidney function declines, the medication should be discontinued to prevent complications.
- Cardiac Failure: Rosiglitazone, another component of Avandamet, can cause the body to retain fluid, potentially leading to heart failure. This risk is especially high in patients with existing heart conditions. Signs of heart failure include shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, and rapid weight gain. If these symptoms appear, treatment should be adjusted or stopped.
- Hypoxic States: Conditions that reduce oxygen levels in the body, such as severe heart failure or shock, can increase the risk of lactic acidosis when taking Avandamet. If such conditions occur, the medication should be stopped immediately to avoid further complications.
- Radiologic Studies with Iodinated Contrast: Procedures involving iodinated contrast dyes can affect kidney function and increase the risk of lactic acidosis in patients on Avandamet. The medication should be paused before the procedure and only restarted after ensuring normal kidney function.
- Surgical Procedures: Avandamet should be temporarily stopped before surgery, especially if the surgery involves restricted food and fluid intake. The medication can be resumed once normal eating and drinking are possible, and kidney function is confirmed to be normal.
- Alcohol Intake: Drinking alcohol, particularly in excess, can increase the risk of lactic acidosis when taking Avandamet. Patients should limit alcohol consumption to reduce this risk.
- Change in Clinical Status: Patients with diabetes who are well-controlled on Avandamet but suddenly experience new symptoms or lab abnormalities should be evaluated for conditions like ketoacidosis or lactic acidosis. Immediate medical attention and potential discontinuation of Avandamet may be required.
- Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events: Rosiglitazone has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events like heart attacks in some patients. This risk is higher compared to other diabetes medications, so patients should be closely monitored for any heart-related symptoms.
- Edema: Edema, or swelling due to fluid retention, can occur with Avandamet, especially in patients at risk for heart failure. Monitoring for swelling in the legs or other parts of the body is important, and adjustments to treatment may be needed.
- Weight Gain: Rosiglitazone can cause weight gain, likely due to fluid retention and increased fat accumulation. This weight gain can contribute to other health issues, so patients should be monitored for excessive weight changes.
- Hepatic Effects: Liver function should be tested before starting Avandamet and monitored during treatment. If liver enzymes are elevated, the medication should be used with caution or discontinued if necessary. Symptoms of liver dysfunction, like jaundice (yellowing of the skin) or dark urine, require immediate medical evaluation.
- Macular Edema: Macular edema, a condition that can cause vision problems, has been reported in some patients taking rosiglitazone. Regular eye exams are recommended for diabetic patients, and any vision changes should be promptly addressed.
- Fractures: An increased risk of bone fractures, particularly in women, has been observed with long-term use of rosiglitazone. Patients should be aware of this risk, and strategies to protect bone health should be considered.
Overdosage
If someone takes too much Avandamet, the effects depend on its two ingredients, rosiglitazone and metformin.
For rosiglitazone, there isn’t much information, but in studies, even a high dose of 20 mg was well tolerated.
If an overdose happens, the treatment will depend on how the person is feeling.
With metformin, taking a large amount, even up to 85 grams, usually doesn’t cause low blood sugar, but it can lead to a serious condition called lactic acidosis.
If this happens, dialysis might be needed to remove the extra metformin from the body.
Drug Interactions With Other Medications
- Inhibitors and Inducers of CYP2C8: Some drugs can affect how Avandamet works by either increasing or decreasing the amount of rosiglitazone in the blood. Drugs like gemfibrozil may increase its levels, while rifampin may decrease them. This might require adjusting the dose of Avandamet to maintain good blood sugar control.
- Cationic Drugs: Some medications, such as digoxin and quinidine, can interact with metformin in Avandamet. These drugs can compete with metformin for elimination from the body, potentially altering its effects. Regular monitoring and possible dose changes may be needed if these drugs are used together.
- Drugs That Cause High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia): Certain medications can raise blood sugar levels, which might make it harder to control diabetes. When using these drugs with Avandamet, blood sugar should be closely watched, and adjustments in diabetes treatment may be necessary to keep blood sugar at the right level.
Cost & Coupons
At Pharma Giant, your health is our top priority, and we believe that accessing essential medications like Avandamet shouldn’t break the bank.
We strive to offer high-quality medications, such as Avandamet, at competitive prices to make healthcare more accessible for everyone.
Exceptional Savings on Avandamet
We are proud to offer significant savings on Avandamet, a trusted medication used to manage type 2 diabetes. Our competitive pricing ensures that this essential treatment is accessible to those who need it most.
Avandamet Pricing Table
| Strength | Quantity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4mg/500mg | 200 tabs | $374.95 |
| 400 tabs | $746.00 | |
| 600 tabs | $1116.00 | |
| 800 tabs | $1484.00 |
By choosing Pharma Giant, you can take advantage of special promotions and discounts that further reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Special Discount Offer
- Discount Code: Enter
PGSAVE10at checkout to receive a 10% discount on Avandamet. This offer helps you save on vital medications without compromising quality. - Offer Info: This discount can be used once per customer, so take advantage of it while you can.
Ordering Details
- Need a Prescription: A valid prescription is required to purchase Avandamet, ensuring safety and compliance with medical guidelines.
- Order in Bulk: You can order up to a 90-day supply, making it easier to manage ongoing treatment and costs.
Quality and Fast Delivery
At Pharma Giant, we are committed to providing high-quality medicine with the convenience of quick delivery directly to your doorstep.
- Fast Shipping: Medications are shipped promptly from Canada to anywhere in the US within 3-5 business days, ensuring you receive your order quickly.
- Safe Packaging: Orders are shipped in secure, tamper-proof packages to ensure your medicine remains safe and intact during delivery.
With Pharma Giant, you can focus on your health without worrying about high costs. Enjoy great value and excellent care today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer
Pharma Giant provides medical information to help you better understand medications and medical conditions.This content is for informational use only and does not replace advice from a licensed medical practitioner. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medication. All our partners follow strict safety standards set by their country’s health authorities to make sure you receive safe and high-quality medications.
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