AVANDAMET Oral

AVANDAMET Oral Warning

The rosiglitazone in this medication may infrequently cause or worsen certain heart problems (congestive heart failure, heart attack). Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of heart problems, including: swelling of the hands/feet, unusual/sudden weight gain, trouble breathing, chest pain/discomfort.

The metformin in this combination medication can rarely cause a condition called lactic acidosis, which can be fatal. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop any of the following symptoms of lactic acidosis: unusual tiredness, severe drowsiness, cold skin, muscle pain, rapid/difficult breathing, unusually slow/irregular heartbeat.

Lactic acidosis is more likely to occur in patients who have: serious infection, surgery, kidney or liver disease, conditions that may cause a low level of oxygen in the blood or poor circulation (e.g., severe congestive heart failure, recent heart attack or stroke), excessive alcohol use, a lack of body fluids (dehydration), X-ray or scanning procedures that require an injectable iodinated contrast drug. The elderly are also at a higher risk, especially people over 80 who have not had kidney and liver tests.

AVANDAMET Oral Side Effects

See also Warning section.

Nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea and metallic taste may occur at the beginning of treatment as your body adjusts to the medication. If stomach symptoms return later (after you are on the same dose for several days or more), tell your doctor immediately. Returning stomach symptoms may be due to lactic acidosis.

Headache, joint pain, weight gain, loss of appetite, cough and fever may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.