Avandia Side Effects
Avandia is the brand name of the generic formula rosiglitazone, which is a type of drug known as thiazolidinedione. It is available by prescription only and is used in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. In conjunction with a regulated diet plan it is intended to improve glucose control in diabetes patients, and has been prescribed in combination with other diabetes medications including Avandamet and Avandaryl.
Restrictions On The Use Of Avandia
Over the last several years a number of studies have been performed as a result of complaints by patients using Avandia. These concerns were primarily over the indications that Avandia may have serious side effects that are harmful to the cardiovascular system in people using this drug. In 2007 the FDA warned that the use of Avandia could lead to a serious increase in the risk of heart attack.
Symptoms of possible heart problems include weight gain, shortness of breath, swelling of the feet and ankles, and high blood pressure. The studies concluded that a significant number of those using Avandia were showing symptoms of heart attack or heart failure, and many have now filed complaints and/or lawsuits over their negative experiences with Avandia.
Recently the FDA restricted the use of this drug to those who cannot treat their Type 2 diabetes with any other medication or diet and exercise program. New warnings have been placed on the packaging that addresses the possibility of heart problems associated with the use of prescription Avandia.
How Avandia Is Taken
Avandia is in a tablet form that is taken orally. Depending on the individual it is taken once or twice daily, and the dosage may be increased or decreased after about 8-12 weeks. Often it takes two weeks or more for the blood sugar levels to decrease when using this product.
Avandia is a treatment for Type 2 diabetes but is not a cure. It is not prescribed for the treatment of Type 1 diabetes nor the condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis.
Other Side Effects Of Avandia
Common side effects noted during clinical trials included dizziness, nausea, headache, pale skin, sweating, hunger, nervousness and sudden changes in behavior. Most patients report these symptoms in the first one or two weeks of using this medication. Hypoglycemia shows certain severe symptoms if the use of a prescribed drug is halted. These symptoms include seizures, confusion and loss of consciousness.
Legal Action And Advice
People who have concerns over the use of Avandia are advised to seek legal help in answering their questions. Avandia has been identified as a medication that can have serious side effects, and those who have experienced any or all of the above symptoms may be at risk for certain health complications. If you feel that you have been prescribed Avandia incorrectly or that the drug is having an adverse effect on your overall health it is highly recommended that you contact a legal advisor who specializes in the field of medicines and their misuse.
Avandia has not been banned by the FDA but further studies involving the possible side effects of this drug are ongoing. Current users of this product are advised to seek help from an attorney or other legal counsel if there are specific concerns or questions about their legal rights. It is not recommended that persons discontinue using Avandia before consulting with their physician.
