An increased risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular problems have been linked to Avandia, GlaxoSmithKline’s best-selling drug for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, in a recent meta-analysis. Because Avandia is used by approximately 1 million Americans, and because diabetes patients are particularly prone to heart attacks and cardiovascular difficulties, this potential risk is reason for serious concern.

A 2007 study found that women who take Avandia or the drugs Avandamet or Avandaryl, also manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, have an increased risk of bone fractures, particularly in the upper arm, hand, or foot. Men taking these drugs don’t seem to be affected in this way. The active ingredient in the drugs causing this problem is rosiglitazone.

The following are identified as additional potential Avandia side effects:

• Congestive heart failure
• Pulmonary edema
• Pleural effusion
• Anemia
• Swelling
• Unexplained rapid weight gain
• Trouble breathing
• Unusual fatigue
• Racing or pounding heartbeat
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of eyes or skin
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Stomach or abdominal pain

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Avandia has also been reported to worsen certain effects of diabetes, including:

• New or worsening diabetic macular edema with decreased visual acuity
• Hypergylcemic (high blood sugar level) effects

The symptoms of hyperglycemia include:

• Thirst
• Increased urination
• Confusion
• Drowsiness
• Flushing
• Rapid breathing
• Fruity breath odor

Avandia has been reported to produce symptoms of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels. Those symptoms include:

• Chills
• Cold sweats
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Shaking
• Rapid heart rate
• Weakness
• Headache
• Fainting
• Tingling in the hands and feet
• Hunger

Some patients are allergic to Avandia, and allergy symptoms can include:

• Rash
• Itching
• Swelling
• Dizziness
• Trouble breathing

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The experts agree that patients currently taking Avandia should not stop taking the medication on their own, but they should consult with their health care providers to discuss alternate treatment possibilities. There are several drugs on the market for the treatment of diabetes that have not been linked to heart disease or bone fractures.

If you or someone close to you has suffered a heart attack or cardiovascular problems after taking Avandia, you should investigate the possibility that the injury was caused by Avandia. To find out if you might be eligible to file an Avandia lawsuit, you need to have your case evaluated by an experienced Avandia attorney. See Avandia Attorney and Lawyer – How to Hire to the right lawyer to help you.

Check out the following articles for more information about Avandia, filing an Avandia lawsuit and finding an Avandia attorney.

• For more information about Avandia , see Drug Overview: Avandia Side Effects and Claims
• To find out more about the FDA warning, see Avandia Side Effects and Risks
• For more information about Avandia updates, see Avandia Information and Warnings
• If you would like to learn more about Avandia lawsuits, see Avandia Lawsuits, Litigation & Lawyers
• To learn more about Avandia attorneys and how to find one, see Hiring a Avandia Attorney and Lawyer