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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

ROSIGLITAZONE - ORAL

(ROE-si-GLI-ta-zone)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Avandia

WARNING: This medication may infrequently cause or worsen certain heart problems (congestive heart failure, heart attack). Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of heart problems, including: swelling of the hands/feet, unusual/sudden weight gain, trouble breathing, chest pain/discomfort.

USES: Rosiglitazone is an anti-diabetic drug (thiazolidinedione-type, also called "glitazones") used with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes (non-insulin-dependent diabetes). You should only begin taking rosiglitazone when other drugs have not worked well or cannot be taken, and you do not wish to take pioglitazone-containing medications. If you are currently taking rosiglitazone and have good control of your blood sugars and no new side effects/symptoms, continue to take this drug as directed. Ask your doctor promptly about the risks and benefits of this drug, since a small number of people have had serious side effects (see Warning Section).

After November 18, 2011, only patients enrolled in the Avandia-Rosiglitazone Medicines Access Program may obtain and use rosiglitazone-containing products. Your doctor will need to register you with this program before you can receive your prescription. Only physicians enrolled in the Avandia-Rosiglitazone Medicines Access Program may prescribe rosiglitazone-containing products, and only certified mail-order pharmacies enrolled in the program may dispense them. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for more details about the program.

Rosiglitazone works by helping to restore your body's proper response to insulin, thereby lowering your blood sugar. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using rosiglitazone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth, with or without food, usually once or twice daily, or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition, response to therapy, and if you are taking other anti-diabetic drugs.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time(s) each day. Monitor blood glucose levels on a regular basis.

It may take up to 2 to 3 months before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.

Take all other medications for diabetes as directed by your doctor.