Avandia

Avandia is prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes by helping to improve insulin sensitivity and by helping to lower blood sugar and keep it under better control. The medication comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth once or twice a day. Your Avandia dosage will vary depending on a number of factors, such as how well your diabetes is controlled, other medical conditions you may have, and other medications you may currently be taking. As with any medication, there are potential side effects, such as upper respiratory infections, headaches, and back pain.

What Is Avandia?

Avandia^® (rosiglitazone maleate) is a prescription medication that is used to treat type 2 diabetes (also known as noninsulin-dependent diabetes or adult-onset diabetes). It can be used alone or in combination with other diabetes medications.

Keep in mind that the drug is not intended to be used for the treatment of type 1 diabetes (see Avandia and Type 1 Diabetes).

(Click Avandia Uses for more information on what it is used for, including possible off-label uses.)

In September 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it would be severely restricting the use of Avandia, due to the risk of "cardiovascular events" such as heart attacks and strokes. Only individuals who cannot control their diabetes on other medications (or those who are already taking the medication and doing well) will be able to take Avandia.

Who Makes Avandia?

It is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline.

How Does It Work?

Avandia is part of a group of diabetes medications called thiazolidinediones (or sometimes called "glitazones"). It helps to improve insulin sensitivity, meaning that it helps your body to use its natural insulin better. This helps to lower blood sugar and keep it under better control.

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