Avandamet Side Effects

Constipation, joint pain, and fatigue are possible side effects that may occur with Avandamet. Side effects that are most commonly reported include headache, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, and upper respiratory tract infections. Although the side effects of Avandamet are generally minor and may not require medical attention, you should alert your healthcare provider immediately if you develop problems such as an allergic reaction, rapid weight increase, or chest pain.

 

Avandamet Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Avandamet® (rosiglitazone and metformin). However, not everyone who takes Avandamet will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate Avandamet well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can be easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(The side effects discussed below are not a complete list of side effects reported with Avandamet. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of possible side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects With Avandamet

Avandamet has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials in which side effects of a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine.
 
 
Based on these studies, the most common side effects of Avandamet include:
 
  • Nausea or vomiting -- in up to 16 percent of people
  • Upper respiratory tract infections (similar to the common cold) -- up to 16 percent
  • Diarrhea -- up to 14 percent
  • Headache -- up to 11 percent
  • Upset stomach or heartburn -- up to 10 percent
  • Dizziness -- up to 8 percent
  • Injury -- up to 8 percent
  • Anemia -- up to 7.1 percent
  • Sinus infection or irritation -- up to 6.2 percent
  • Fluid retention or water weight gain and swelling (edema) -- up to 6 percent (see Avandamet and Weight Gain)
  • Abdominal pain (or stomach pain) -- up to 6 percent.
     
Other common Avandamet side effects (occurring in 1 percent to 6 percent of people) include:
 

 

Also, a recent study found that up to 9.3 percent of women taking Avandia® (rosiglitazone) develop broken bones -- especially of the arms, hands, or feet. Since rosiglitazone is one of the components of Avandamet, it is possible that women taking this drug may also be at risk for broken bones.

 

(Avandamet Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;