Rosiglitazone/metformin-oral

See also Warning section.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to rosiglitazone or metformin; or to other glitazones such as pioglitazone; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, breathing problems (such as obstructive lung disease, severe asthma), heart disease (such as congestive heart failure, heart attack, angina), blood problems (such as anemia, vitamin B-12 deficiency), swelling (edema), fluid in the lungs, eye (retina) problems, bone problems (such as osteoporosis, osteopenia).

Before having surgery or any X-ray/scanning procedure using iodinated contrast, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). You may need to stop this medication for a short time for the surgery/procedure. Ask your doctor or dentist for instructions before your surgery/procedure.

You may experience blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness due to extremely low or high blood sugar. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

Limit alcohol while taking this medication because it can increase your risk of developing low blood sugar.

High fever, "water pills" (diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide), too much sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting may cause loss of too much body water (dehydration) and increase your risk of lactic acidosis. Stop taking this medication and tell your doctor right away if you have prolonged diarrhea or vomiting. Be sure to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration unless your doctor directs you otherwise.

It may be harder to control your blood sugar when your body is stressed (such as due to fever, infection, injury, or surgery). Consult your doctor because this may require a change in your treatment plan, medications, or blood sugar testing.

This medication may increase the risk of bone fracture (usually in the upper arm, hand, or foot), especially in women. See also Notes section.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication, especially low blood sugar and lactic acidosis.

This medication can cause changes in a woman's menstrual cycle (promote ovulation) and increase the chance of pregnancy. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about using reliable birth control while taking this medication.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Pregnancy may cause or worsen diabetes. Discuss a plan with your doctor for managing your blood sugar while pregnant. Your doctor may change your diabetes treatment during your pregnancy (such as diet and medications including insulin).

Metformin passes into breast milk. It is unknown if rosiglitazone passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.