Examples

Thiazolidinediones are also available in combination pills. Pioglitazone is combined with the biguanide medicine metformin (Actoplus Met) and sulfonylurea medicine glimepiride (Duetact). Rosiglitazone is combined with metformin (Avandamet) and the sulfonylurea medicine glimepiride (Avandaryl).

How It Works

These medicines lower insulin resistance in muscle and fat. They also reduce glucose produced by the liver.

Why It Is Used

Thiazolidinediones are usually used when other medicines have failed to lower blood sugar levels into a target range.

These medicines sometimes lower triglycerides and raise HDL cholesterol.

How Well It Works

Type 2 diabetes is a disease that can get worse over time, so medicines may need to change.

Diabetes medicines work best for people who are being active and eating healthy foods. Studies have suggested that thiazolidinediones lower hemoglobin A1c by 0.5% to 1.4%.¹

Side Effects

All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.

Here are some important things to think about:

• Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
• Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
• If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you have:

• Trouble breathing.
• Hives.
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Pain in your chest.

Call your doctor immediately if you have:

• Symptoms of liver problems, such as nausea, vomiting, belly pain, yellow skin, and/or dark urine.

Common side effects of this medicine include:

• Weight gain.
• Retention of fluid in the body. This may lead to heart failure.
• Muscle pain.
• Runny or stuffy nose, sore throat.
• Headaches.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

Women who have stopped menstruating before they start taking these medicines may begin menstruating again and may become pregnant. Also, women who take oral contraceptives to prevent pregnancy may become pregnant.