Avandamet (Rosiglitazone/Metformin) for Diabetes

Overview
Avandamet is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help improve blood glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Avandamet is considered an adjunct treatment to diet and exercise.

Avandamet is a combination drug composed of the drugs Rosiglitazone, the active ingredient in Avandia, and Metformin. Rosiglitazone is a thiazolidinedione, also known as a glitazone. Rosiglitazone is believed to work by decreasing the amount of glucose released by the liver and making insulin more effective in muscle and fat tissues. Metformin is a Biguanide. Metformin is believed to work by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and making the muscle tissue more sensitive to insulin.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Avandamet is generally taken once or twice daily with meals.

Avandamet comes in tablet form.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Avandamet lists common side effects including nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach, and a metallic taste in the mouth.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Avandamet include congestive heart failure, lactic acidosis, and systemic allergic reaction.

For answers to frequently asked questions about exposure to Metformin during pregnancy and breastfeeding, visit the experts at MothertoBaby.org.