Avandamet and the Increased Risk of Bone Fractures
Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile, lose their bone mass and eventually break if left untreated. Usually the fracture risk embraces hands, arms and feet. Osteoporosis is impossible to diagnose until a fracture occurs. In general, though osteoporosis is not immediately associated with the group of diabetes-related complications, diabetes mellitus is considered a serious risk factor for the development of osteoporosis, especially if a patient takes medications which can ramp up the risk of bone fractures.
The diabetes medications belonging to the drug class called thiazolidinediones containing Rosiglitazone are considered linked to higher rates of bone fractures. Thus, Avandamet belongs to the group of medications which increase the risk of fractures.
Rosiglitazone is believed to affect bone metabolism. Besides, bone frailty is often conditioned by some typical diabetic conditions, one of which manifests itself in hypoglycemic episodes because in the condition of hypoglycemia coordination and balance factors usually fail. Besides, visual impairment which often accompanies a hypoglycemic episode can lead to a fall with possible fractures. Fractures are also more likely to occur if you have diabetic complications, such as, neuropathy and cardiac impairment, which develop in patients with longstanding or poorly controlled diabetes. Studies show that the risk of bone fractures appears the highest after two years of taking Rosiglitazone in any form such as a constituent part of Avandamet.
The prognosis for progressing osteoporosis is long-term nursing care for a patient and even permanent disability. That is why it is important to remember that maintaining your health with diabetes mellitus requires taking various measures all of which are aimed at preventing grave complications of diabetes. In this line some preventive measures against bone fractures can and should be taken. They include not only optimal glycemic control and prevention of hypoglycemic episodes, but also regular visual assessment and exercises to improve muscle strength and balance. Managing osteoporosis also requires healthy nutrition rich in calcium and vitamin D which are important for bone health. If you are careful and attentive to yourself, it is not at all necessary to discontinue Avandamet.