What is this medication for?
This combination medication is used to control blood sugar levels for people with type 2 diabetes (formerly known as noninsulin dependent diabetes). The two ingredients, rosiglitazone and metformin, have different but complementary actions that help to reduce levels of blood glucose. This medication should be used with dietary changes and exercise.
Rosiglitazone belongs to the class of medications called thiazolidinediones. Rosiglitazone reduces levels of blood glucose (sugar in the blood) by helping insulin to work more effectively and allowing the cells of the body to take glucose in more easily. By controlling blood glucose levels effectively and making cells more "sensitive" to insulin, rosiglitazone can help prevent or delay the long- and short-term complications of diabetes (e.g., kidney disease, eye problems, nerve problems). Although rosiglitazone may start to lower blood glucose shortly after starting it, the maximum effects may not be realized until the medication has been taken for approximately 14 weeks.
Metformin belongs to the class of medications called biguanides. Metformin works by reducing the amount of glucose made by the liver and by making it easier for glucose to enter into the tissues of the body. Metformin has been found to be especially useful in delaying diabetes-related problems for people who are overweight.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Avandamet® by GlaxoSmithKline is available as:
- tablets
- 1 mg rosiglitazone and 500 mg metformin
- 2 mg rosiglitazone and 500 mg metformin
- 4 mg rosiglitazone and 500 mg metformin
- 2 mg rosiglitazone and 1,000 mg metformin
- 4 mg rosiglitazone and 1,000 mg metformin
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The dose of rosiglitazone - metformin will vary depending on response. It should be taken twice daily with food. The maximum daily dose is 8 mg of rosiglitazone and 2,000 mg of metformin (e.g., 2 tablets of the 2 mg per 500 mg strength twice daily).
Use of this medication should be temporarily discontinued by people undergoing tests requiring intravenous injection of contrast materials that contain iodine.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Rosiglitazone - metformin should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to rosiglitazone, metformin, or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- is undergoing tests requiring intravenous injection of contrast materials that contain iodine (in this case, this medication should be temporarily discontinued)
- has acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
- has congestive heart failure and requires treatment with medications
- has kidney disease or impaired kidney function
- has severe heart failure (NYHA Class III or IV)