Rosiglitazone

About rosiglitazone

Rosiglitazone works by helping to lower blood sugar levels.

Before taking rosiglitazone

Before taking rosiglitazone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from heart failure or heart disease.
• If you suffer from acute coronary syndrome (symptoms suggestive of a heart attack).
• If you suffer from peripheral arterial disease (fatty patches cause narrowing of arteries which results in less blood getting to the legs, causing leg pain).
• If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
• If you are due to have any surgery in the near future (see below).
• If you use insulin.
• If there is a history of osteoporosis (weak bones) in your family.

How to take rosiglitazone

• Rosiglitazone is taken on its own or in combination with other antidiabetic tablets.
• Follow the instructions given to you by your doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your appointments with your doctor/practice nurse.
• You will need to have regular blood tests to check your blood sugar, cholesterol levels and liver function.
• You may also have your blood pressure checked.
• If you are due to have surgery tell your surgeon that you are taking rosiglitazone. The usual advice is not to take rosiglitazone on the morning of your surgery, and only to start taking rosiglitazone once you are eating and drinking normally.
• Ensure you stick to a well-balanced diet- include starchy foods at every meal, include more vegetables and fruit in your diet, and cut down on salt.
• Eat regular meals- try not to skip any.
• Avoid drinking alcohol on an empty stomach as this increases the risk of hypoglycaemia.
• Hypoglycaemia is when blood glucose levels become too low. Symptoms include an anxious feeling, cold sweats, confusion, headache, feeling or being sick, nervousness, palpitations (being aware of your heartbeat), shaking, unusual tiredness or weakness or visual problems
• Avoid drinking or eating too many sugary items as this increases the risk of hyperglycaemia.
• Hyperglycaemia is when blood glucose levels become too high. Symptoms include drowsiness, flushed face, fruity smell on breath, increased need to pass water, loss of appetite or unusual thirst.

Can rosiglitazone cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

• Important: If you get any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately- feeling or being sick for no apparent reason, tummy pain, tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine.
• Important: If you notice any changes in your vision, see your doctor or optician as soon as possible.

How to store rosiglitazone

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines