Rosiglitazone maleate
Brand Names
Rosiglitazone maleateWhat is Rosiglitazone maleate
Rosiglitazone maleate (Avandia) is a prescription medication that refers to a class of medications called thiazolidinediones. It works by increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin, a natural substance that helps control blood sugar levels. This medication is effective for treating type 2 diabetes. It can be used alone or in combination with other diabetes medications.
It is very important to note that rosiglitazone is not intended to be used for the treatment of type 1 diabetes.
Side effects of Rosiglitazone maleate
You should know that Rosiglitazone may cause changes in your blood sugar. You should know the symptoms of low and high blood sugar and what to do if you have these symptoms.
Possible side effects caused by Rosiglitazone are the followings:
- headache
- runny nose and other cold symptoms
- sore throat
- back pain
- loss of appetite
- nausea
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- dark urine
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- blurred vision
- vision loss
- difficulty seeing colors
- difficulty seeing in the dark
- pale skin
- dizziness
- swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue or throat
- hoarseness
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
- hives
- itching
- fever
- blisters
Indication
Rosiglitazone should be used along with a diet and exercise program and sometimes with one or more other medications in order to treat type 2 diabetes. This medication should only be used to treat people who are already taking the medication or people whose blood sugar cannot be controlled with other medications and who have decided not to take pioglitazone in order to avoid serious side effects.
Precautions
Before taking rosiglitazone maleate, you should inform your doctor if you have:
- Heart problems of any kind, especially congestive heart failure (CHF)
- Liver problems, including liver failure or cirrhosis
- An upcoming surgery
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes or preservatives
- Have problems getting pregnant
- Are pre-menopausal without regular menstrual periods
- Are breastfeeding, pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
- Are taking any other medications, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements
Dosage forms
Rosiglitazone dose for treating Type 2 Diabetes
The recommended starting dosage of rosiglitazone for treating type 2 diabetes is 4 mg once daily (or 2 mg twice daily). If necessary, your doctor may increase your dosage of rosiglitazone up to 8 mg once daily (or rosiglitazone 4 mg twice daily) after 8-12 weeks.
If you are taking insulin, the maximum recommended dosage of rosiglitazone is 4 mg once daily (or 2 mg twice daily).
