Avandamet is administered orally, and preferably once or twice daily with meals to decrease gastrointestinal side effects. An appropriate dose and frequency of administration should be determined by a health care provider, depending on the individual’s medical condition and response to therapy.

Usual Starting Dose: For oral administration, the recommended dose is 1 mg of rosiglitazone and 500 mg of metformin once or twice daily.

Adjusting Dose: If the blood glucose levels do not come within target limits for some time, then the physician may increase the dose.

Maximum Dose: A maximal dose of rosiglitazone should not exceed 8 mg per day and a maximal dose of metformin should be not more than 2000 mg per day.

It should be taken with water. Dosing with food can help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset that is often experienced as a result of metformin.

Avandamet consists of two mechanisms of action

Metformin (Glucophage) reduces glucose production in the liver and also improves the body’s response to insulin. It increases the sensitivity of muscle and fat cells to insulin, which helps these tissues take more glucose from the blood better.

Rosiglitazone, marketed as Avandia, enhances sensitivity to insulin by enhancing uptake of glucose by muscles and fat cells. It exerts its action through the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), which regulate expression of genes that are responsible for glucose and fat metabolism.

In combination, these drugs decrease blood sugar levels in addition to decreasing insulin resistance, a characteristic of type 2 diabetes.

Like every other medication, Avandamet also induces side effects. Common side effects can include:

Gastrointestinal Problems: These include nausea, diarrhea, or discomfort in the abdominal area. These are more commonly seen with metformin when treatment is started or when the dosage is increased.

Headache

Cold-like Symptoms: Nasal congestion, sore throat, and upper respiratory infections.

Weight Gain: Rosiglitazone can induce mild and moderate weight gain in a patient due to its effect on fluid retention.

Anemia: A decrease in red blood cells, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath.

Serious side effects, although rare, can include:

Lactic Acidosis: A rare but serious condition where lactic acid builds up in the blood. Symptoms include weakness, fatigue, unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, and stomach discomfort. If this occurs, immediate medical attention is needed.

Heart Failure: Thiazolidinediones (like rosiglitazone) have been associated with an increased risk of heart failure, particularly in people with pre-existing heart conditions.

Bladder Cancer: There is a potentially increased risk of bladder cancer with long-term use of rosiglitazone; the increase in this risk, however, has been controversial.

Prior to beginning Avandamet, the patient must inform his healthcare provider of the following:

Heart Disease and Heart Failure: Avandamet should be exercised cautiously in a patient with heart disease or heart failure. It would enhance fluid retention and lead to heart failure.

Liver Disease: Individuals with liver problems or impaired liver function should avoid using Avandamet due to the risk of liver damage.

Kidney Function: Metformin can affect kidney function, and those with kidney disease may need an adjusted dose or may not be prescribed Avandamet.

Pregnancy and Breast Feeding: Avandamet is contraindicated in pregnancy because it can cause harm to the developing fetus. It is also to be avoided in breastfeeding women as it excreted into the breast milk.

Alcohol Consumption: High alcohol intake enhances the risk for a rare but serious side effect of metformin known as lactic acidosis.

Anturol may interact with other drugs, leading to increased side effects or reduced effectiveness. Always inform your doctor of any medications you are taking.

Avandamet should be dosed based on the individual requirements and treatment response of the patient:

The initiation dose is usually rosiglitazone 1 mg, and metformin 500 mg administered once or twice daily with meals.

The dose should be titrated according to what has been achieved in controlling blood sugar levels and tolerance. The highest dose is 8 mg of rosiglitazone and 2000 mg of metformin a day.

Kidney and Liver Considerations: A patient with kidney or liver disease may need to take a smaller dose or should not receive Avandamet.

Avandamet requires a prescription from a licensed health care professional. For a prescription, a health care provider will evaluate his patient’s history, especially on diabetes management, kidney and liver function, and other medical conditions.

1. What is Avandamet used for?

   • Avandamet is used to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes when diet and exercise alone are not sufficient.

2. What are the active ingredients in Avandamet?

   • Avandamet contains two active ingredients: rosiglitazone and metformin.

3. How does Avandamet work?

   • Rosiglitazone improves insulin sensitivity, helping cells use glucose more effectively, while metformin decreases hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity.

4. Who should not take Avandamet?

   • Avandamet should not be taken by individuals with a history of heart failure, severe kidney issues, or certain liver problems.

5. What are the common side effects of Avandamet?

   • Common side effects may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, and weight gain.

6. Is Avandamet safe for people with heart conditions?

   • Patients with heart conditions should use caution and consult their healthcare provider, as rosiglitazone has been associated with an increased risk of heart problems.

7. Can Avandamet cause hypoglycemia?

   • Avandamet generally does not cause hypoglycemia when used alone, but the risk may increase if taken with other diabetes medications.

8. Can Avandamet be taken during pregnancy?

   • It is essential to discuss with a healthcare professional, as the safety of Avandamet during pregnancy has not been established.

9. How should Avandamet be taken?

   • Avandamet is typically taken orally, with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. It’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosage.

10. What should I do if I miss a dose of Avandamet?

    • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose; do not double up.

11. How should Avandamet be stored?

    • Store Avandamet at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.

12. Can alcohol be consumed while taking Avandamet?

    • Alcohol can increase the risk of lactic acidosis (especially with metformin), so it’s advisable to limit or avoid alcohol during treatment.

13. Are there any drug interactions with Avandamet?

    • Yes, certain medications, including other diabetes medications, diuretics, and corticosteroids, may interact with Avandamet. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.

14. What tests will be needed while on Avandamet?

    • Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, kidney function tests, and periodic liver function tests are typically required.

15. Can Avandamet lead to lactic acidosis?

    • There is a risk of lactic acidosis with metformin, especially in certain conditions like kidney impairment or dehydration. Symptoms include muscle pain, difficulty breathing, and abdominal discomfort.

16. How long does it take for Avandamet to start working?

    • Patients may start to see blood glucose improvement within a few weeks, but it may take several months for the full effects to manifest.

17. Can weight gain occur with Avandamet use?

    • Yes, weight gain may occur due to the effects of rosiglitazone, so patients should monitor their weight regularly.

18. Is Avandamet effective in combination with other diabetes medications?

    • Yes, Avandamet can be used in combination with other diabetes medications to achieve better control of blood sugar levels.

19. What lifestyle changes should accompany Avandamet use?

    • It’s essential to adopt a healthy diet, engage in regular physical activity, and monitor blood sugar levels as part of diabetes management alongside Avandamet.

20. What should I do if I experience severe side effects?

    • If you experience severe side effects, such as breathing difficulty, swelling, or signs of lactic acidosis, seek immediate medical attention.