A popular diabetes drug has been under scrutiny lately. A recent study suggests that Avandia (rosiglitazone) can increase the risk of heart attack in those who take it. This is not the first time there has been concern over the safety of the drug. It has long been known that the drug puts its users at a higher risk of heart failure.

The new study performed an analysis of 42 trials comparing Avandia with placebo or other diabetes drugs. It then measured the rates of heart attack and death from all causes. A total of 15,560 patients were looked in these studies. The analysis found there were 86 heart attacks in the Avandia group versus 72 in the groups that received placebo or another drug. There were also 39 deaths from cardiovascular causes in the Avandia group versus 22 in the other groups.

It is unclear how Avandia increases the risk of heart attack. Experts think it may have something to do with its effects on blood cholesterol. Avandia increases levels of LDL cholesterol (AKA ‘bad’ cholesterol) by almost 19%. However, it also increases levels of HDL cholesterol (AKA ‘good’ cholesterol) at the same time. Another possible theory involves Avandia’s ability to cause weight gain.

It is also unknown whether Avandia’s sister drug, Actos (pioglitazone) carries the same heart attack risks. Both Avandia and Actos have similar effects on body weight and blood sugar. Actos has also been associated with an increased risk of heart failure. Actos does have more favorable effects on cholesterol though.

Although this study does not show that Avandia can cause a heart attack, the researchers concluded that Avandia was strongly associated with a significant increase in the risk of heart attack as compared with placebo or other drugs. Because of this new evidence, the American Diabetes Association, the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association have issued comments regarding the drug. They state, “This study deserves serious thought and follow-up…patients using this drug should talk to their health care provider to determine the most appropriate course of action. Patients should not stop taking any prescribed medications without first discussing the issue with their health care provider.” The American Diabetes Association also, “Strongly encourages patients taking this medication to consult with their physician as to its benefits and risks.“

There are many other medications out there for treating diabetes. It is this author’s recommendation that Avandia be avoided and other medications used instead. Even though Actos has not been shown to carry the same risk of heart attack, it is reasonable to assume that there may be an increased risk due to the chemical similarity of the drugs. If you are taking either Avandia or Actos, you may want to talk to your doctor about other possible treatment options. Be sure not to stop taking any prescription medications without first talking to your doctor.