When comparing Avandia vs Metformin, it is important to consider that both are oral anti-diabetic medications; however, they are neither chemically nor structurally similar.
What is Avandia?
Avandia is actually the trade name for the active compound rosiglitazone, which is from a class of drugs called thiazolidinedione that functions to improve blood sugar levels by increasing the sensitivity of muscle and fat cells to insulin. It also helps to lower the sugar production by the liver.
Also read: Actos Vs. Avandia
What is Metformin?
On the other hand, metformin belongs to the biguanide class of drugs that aims to regulate blood sugar levels through a similar mechanism as Avandia and decreasing sugar absorption from the diet.
Are there any similarities?
A distinct common advantage shared by these two products is that there are no instances where they will cause dangerously low blood sugar levels, which is also known as hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is a potentially fatal condition where the sugar level in the body is too low to sustain all the biological processes.
Differences between Avandia vs Metformin
Metformin is best taken orally with food and acts within two-and-a-half hours after its entry into the digestive system. Avandia can be given once a day in the morning with or without food. Scientific evidence has demonstrated that the simultaneous use of Avandia and metformin has resulted in the blood sugar control of patients being significantly better possibly because of a synergistic mechanism of action between the two. This mechanism of action between these two is also safer than other combinations that involve agents that may cause hypoglycemia, as mentioned above. Keep in mind that metformin has been touted to cause a rare but extremely serious side effect called lactic acidosis, which is when patients begin to experience tiredness, sleepiness, abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing. It is known to be fatal in 50% of the cases that occur, but, thankfully, it only happens in less than 0.05% of the patients taking metformin. Avandia on the other hand, is associated with increased risk of heart attacks.
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Disclaimer: Please note that the contents of this community article are strictly for informational purposes and should not be considered as medical advice. This article, and other community articles, are not written or reviewed for medical validity by Canadian Insulin or its staff. All views and opinions expressed by the contributing authors are not endorsed by Canadian Insulin. Always consult a medical professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
