Microsoft word - 230622-avandia patient handout _plc-prl_ _part a_.doc
Avandia and Risk of Heart Attack Information for Patients
If you or a loved one has diabetes and uses a
We rely on a group of experts at Prescriber's
medication called Avandia (rosiglitazone), you
Letter and Pharmacist’s Letter to analyze
have probably heard about several new studies
these kinds of studies for us. They agree with
the American Diabetes Association who now
strongly encourages patients taking Avandia to
Some of these studies suggest that Avandia
consult their healthcare provider to reevaluate
increases the risk of heart attacks, but they
whether the benefit of the drug is worth the
don’t prove it. Most experts recommended
not jumping to conclusions based on the initial
Below is some background information to
Additional evidence is coming to light. It still
help you.
does not prove there is a problem but it
What is Avandia? Avandia (rosiglitazone) is a medicine used to treat people with type 2 diabetes. It helps the body use its own natural insulin better, which lowers blood sugar. Avandia can be used alone, or with other medicines to treat diabetes. Rosiglitazone, the drug in Avandia, is also in Avandaryl and Avandamet. Does it really increase my chances of having a heart attack? A new study hints that there might be an increased risk, but it certainly doesn’t prove it. The FDA is gathering additional information to decide if it does. Should I stop taking Avandia? No, not without discussing it with your healthcare provider first. But the American Diabetes Association now strongly encourages patients taking Avandia to consult their healthcare provider to decide if the benefits of the drug outweigh the possible risks. Are there other options for me? Yes. There is a medicine that is similar to Avandia called Actos (pioglitazone). Plus there are many other diabetes medicines. Be sure to follow your diet and exercise instructions too. What should I watch for if I’m taking Avandia? Avandia and Actos both can worsen symptoms of heart failure. If you are taking either of these medicines and have swelling (fluid retention), breathing trouble, or sudden weight gain, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Avandia and Actos can very rarely cause other problems. If you are taking either of these medicines and have unexplained nausea and vomiting, stomach pain, tiredness, appetite loss, or if you notice that your skin or eyes look yellow, contact your healthcare provider. Also make sure your pharmacist and your prescriber know about any natural supplements, energy drinks, over-the-counter drugs, or any other remedies you may be taking. These can sometimes affect your blood sugar. You are invited to discuss any of your medications or concerns with us.
Prepared for the subscribers of Pharmacist’s Letter / Prescriber’s Letter to give to their patients.
Copyright 2007 by Therapeutic Research Center www.pletter.com
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