Basic Info: Avandia

Avandia is a diabetes medication manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).  Also known as Rosiglitazone, Avandia works to control blood sugar levels in type II diabetes patients. It is a blood sugar control medication that is meant to be taken along with healthy diet and exercise to balance insulin levels.  Although the FDA has issued some warnings in regard to side effects and risks, at this time, Avandia is still available as a prescription medication.  The FDA continues to review and monitor clinical trials of Avandia to evaluate the benefits of the drug against the risks.

Prescribing Information for Avandia

Avandia is meant to control type II diabetes only, and is only active in the presence of endogenous (naturally produced) insulin.  It is not to be prescribed to patients with type I diabetes, who are dependent on insulin injections or other insulin treatments.  In addition, Avandia should be prescribed only as part of a diet, exercise, and medication plan - not as a stand alone remedy.  GSK does not recommend that Avandia be prescribed in conjunction with insulin or nitrates.  It should also not be prescribed to those with heart problems, liver problems, high risk of bone fracture or osteoporosis, or women who are pregnant.

Dosage Information for Avandia

The official prescribing information found on GlaxoSmith Kline's website recommends that patients be prescribed a lower dose to begin with (typically 4mg per day).  After 8-12 weeks, if the patient is not responding to Avandia, the dose can be increased.  Avandia is available in 3 dosage amounts: 2mg, 4mg, and 8mg.  All of the tablets are pentagonal in shape, and have an SB imprinted on one side, with the dosage number on the other side.  The 2mg tablet is pink, the 4mg is orange, and the 8mg is red-brown.

Side Effects of Avandia

Major Health Risks of Avandia

In clinical trials, a number of side effects were seen in patients using Avandia versus those using the placebo.  The most significant side effect observed is one that poses a serious health risk to users.  Avandia has been shown to increase risk of heart attack, heart failure, and other cardiac problems, and should not be prescribed to those with a history of or a high risk for heart failure.  Read more about  heart problems and  Avandia here.

More recently, Avandia has been linked to increased bone fractures and osteoporosis, as it interferes with the body's natural process for replenishing bone cells.  Avandia should not be prescribed to patients with high risk of bone fracture or history of osteoporosis.  Follow this link to learn more about Avandia and osteoporosis.

In rare cases, Avandia has been associated with liver failure in some patients that has been fatal, or caused need for a liver transplant.  Though it is serious, this side effect is not common.  There is no conclusive evidence regarding Avandia as carrying a high risk for liver failure, or any FDA restraints or warnings associated with liver failure in Avandia patients.  Therefore, prescribing doctors should take blood tests to evaluate the patient's liver condition before prescribing Avandia, and regularly throughout the time that the patient is taking the drug.

Other Side Effects of Avandia

Other side effects associated with Avandia may include but are not limited to the following.  These side effects may occur as a result of taking Avandia either alone, or in combination with other medications.  Click here to read more detailed information on Avandia side effects.

• Hypoglycemia
• Hyperglycemia
• Upper respiratory problems/shortness of breath
• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Back pain
• Fatigue
• Nasopharyngitis (common cold/inflammation of the nasal passages)
• Sinusitis
• Anemia
• Ovulation in women who do not normally experience a menstrual cycle
• Abdominal Pain
• Loss of appetite

Help With an Avandia Injury

If you feel that you have experienced a life-threatening side-effect or an injury related to Avandia, you may want to seek legal assistance.  An Avandia lawyer can evaluate your case and help you determine the best course of action.  Use the contact form provided on this page to inquire with a qualified Avandia attorney in your area.