Endocrine System Home > Rosiglitazone and Glimepiride
A healthcare provider may prescribe rosiglitazone and glimepiride to help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. This medication works by improving insulin sensitivity and by causing the pancreas to produce more insulin. As with any drug, there are potential side effects that can develop, including headache, low blood sugar, and sore throat. Rosiglitazone and glimepiride comes in the form of a tablet that is generally taken once a day.
In September 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it was severely restricting the use of rosiglitazone and glimepiride, due to the risk of "cardiovascular events" such as heart attacks and strokes. Only individuals who could not control their diabetes on other medications (or those who were already taking the medication and doing well) would be able to take rosiglitazone and glimepiride.
However, in November 2013, the FDA announced that a careful analysis of the research suggests that there is not, in fact, any increased risk, compared to treatment with standard diabetes medications and that the use of this medication will no longer be restricted.
What Is Rosiglitazone and Glimepiride?
Rosiglitazone and glimepiride (Avandaryl®) is a prescription medication that is used to treat type 2 diabetes (also known as noninsulin-dependent diabetes or adult-onset diabetes). The drug is a combination of two different diabetes medications: rosiglitazone maleate (Avandia®) and glimepiride (Amaryl®).(Click What Is Rosiglitazone and Glimepiride Used For? for more information on what this drug is used for, including possible off-label uses.)