Safety Alert: Rosiglitazone
Thiazolidinediones Associated with Increased Risk of Fractures
A study recently published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests that women taking thiazolidinediones, such as AVANDIA, are at an increased risk of fractures of the hip and spine. Thiazolidinediones are medicines used to treat diabetes. One particular thiazolidinedione is called pioglitazone and is sold under the brand name Actos. Another is rosiglitazone, sold under the brand name Avandia. These products also come as a combination tablet with metformin (called Actoplus Met and Avandamet) and a combination tablet with glimepiride (called Avandaryl and Duetact).
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What does this mean?
This recent article suggests that thiazolidinediones, including AVANDIA, are associated with an increased risk of fractures and low bone mineral density, an early sign of osteoporosis. If you are currently taking AVANDIA or considering starting this medicine, you should talk to your doctor about the benefits and side effects of taking AVANDIA. If you continue taking this medicine, you should also regularly review with your doctor your risk for fractures and osteoporosis.
