Avandia (Cont.)

 
Avandia and Hemoglobin A1c
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a test used to measure long-term blood sugar control. For people without diabetes, HbA1c results are usually less than 6 percent, while people with diabetes usually have higher results. In one study, people taking Avandia lowered their HbA1c by up to 0.7 percent on average, while the HbA1c in people not taking Avandia increased by 0.8 percent.
 
Studies have shown that the higher the HbA1c, the greater the chance for developing long-term problems related to diabetes. This includes problems such as heart disease, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic neuropathy, and diabetic nephropathy. By getting blood sugar levels under control with Avandia, it may be possible to decrease the chances for developing these diabetes complications.
 
Avandia and Fasting Blood Sugar
Fasting blood sugar is another way to study the effects of a diabetes medication. In studies, people taking Avandia decreased their fasting blood sugar levels by 25 to 55 mg/dL, while people not taking Avandia increased their fasting blood sugar.
 
Other Avandia Effects
During clinical studies, people gained about 2 to 12 pounds (on average) while taking Avandia (see Avandia and Weight Gain). Avandia can also have effects on both good cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL) (see Lipid Effects of Avandia).
 

When and How to Take Avandia

Some general considerations for when and how to take Avandia include:
 
  • Avandia comes in tablet form. It should be taken by mouth once or twice daily.
  • You can take Avandia with or without food. If Avandia bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
  • Avandia should be taken at the same time(s) each day to maintain an even level of the drug in your blood.
  • For Avandia to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Avandia will not work if you stop taking it.
     
(Avandia Continued: Page 3)

Pages:

Previous 1 2 3 4 5 Next

Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;