Precautions and Warnings With Rosiglitazone and Metformin

Prior to starting a new medication, it is important to be aware of its precautions and warnings. With rosiglitazone and metformin, these precautions include checking your liver enzymes regularly, looking out for signs of extremely low or high blood sugar, and watching for rapid weight gain. Certain people should avoid using rosiglitazone and metformin altogether, including those who are seriously dehydrated, have metabolic or diabetic ketoacidosis, or have kidney disease.

 

Rosiglitazone and Metformin: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

Prior to taking rosiglitazone and metformin (Avandamet®), you should talk with your healthcare provider if you have:
 
  • Heart problems of any kind, especially congestive heart failure (CHF)
  • Had a heart attack or stroke
  • Liver problems, including liver failure or cirrhosis
  • Low vitamin B12 levels (pernicious anemia)
  • Kidney problems, including kidney failure (renal failure)
  • An upcoming surgery or procedure (including x-rays and other radiology procedures)
  • Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
 
  • Are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant (see Avandamet and Pregnancy)
  • Are breastfeeding
  • Are having problems getting pregnant
  • Are premenopausal without regular menstrual periods
  • Drink alcohol.
     
Also, tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you may be taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Precautions and Warnings With Rosiglitazone and Metformin Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;