Avandia

rosiglitazone

Avandia is an oral medication for the control of type 2 diabetes. In a class of anti-diabetic drugs called thiazolidinediones, Avandia works by attaching to insulin receptors in the cells of the blood, making them more “insulin receptive” to insulin. This action reduced the amount of blood sugar. Avandia may only be used in patients whose pancreas still produces some insulin, so it is not recommended for patients with type 1 diabetes. Avandia is often used in combination with other anti-diabetic drugs.

Avandia has been shown to cause edema, an accumulation of fluid which results in swelling, usually in the lower extremities, and can lead to heart failure. GlaxoSmithKline PLC, maker of Avandia, sent letters to U.S. physicians in February, 2007 warning that long-term use of Avandia is linked to a higher risk of fractures in female patients.