Weighing up the benefits and risks of diabetes drug Avandia

7 Sep 2010 08:53 AM

You may have seen news reports about diabetes drug Avandia, also known as rosiglitazone.

The drug is taken by some people with type II diabetes to help control blood sugar levels. Having type II diabetes can increase your risk of getting coronary heart disease so it is important to control your blood sugar levels and protect your heart health.

However, concerns have been raised again about the known risks of heart related side effects caused by Avandia in some people.

The European Medicines Agency, the body responsible for licensing drugs in Europe, is reviewing the use of Avandia and is expected to make a decision later this month.

Our associate medical director, Dr Mike Knapton, says:  “If you have been prescribed Avandia and have any concerns about it, speak to your doctor. Don’t stop taking it without speaking to your doctor first. Keeping blood sugar levels under control is important both for your heart and general health too.

“We await the decision on the safety of Avandia from the European Medicines Agency due later this month. As with all drugs, it’s about balancing the benefits and risks for each individual person.”

You can also read what Diabetes UK think about the reports in today's news.