What is this medication for?
Pioglitazone belongs to the class of medications known as thiazolidinediones. Pioglitazone reduces blood glucose by helping insulin work and enabling the body to use glucose more effectively. Glimepiride belongs to the class of medications known as sulfonylureas. Glimepiride works by increasing the release of insulin by the pancreas and also helps the body use this insulin more efficiently.
This combination medication is used to control blood glucose (sugar) levels for people with type 2 diabetes (formerly known as non-insulin dependent diabetes). The 2 ingredients, pioglitazone and glimepiride, have different but complimentary actions that help reduce blood glucose levels.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Duetact™ is available as:
- tablets
- 30 mg pioglitazone and 2 mg glimepiride
- 30 mg pioglitazone and 4 mg glimepiride
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The usual starting dose of this combination medication depends on individual needs and circumstances. For people already taking glimepiride, the usual starting dose is 30 mg of pioglitazone and 2 mg or 4 mg of glimepiride. For people already taking pioglitazone or for people already taking a sulfonylurea other than glimepiride, the usual starting dose is 30 mg of pioglitazone and 2 mg of glimepiride.
The dose is given once daily with the first main meal. The maximum dose is one tablet (of either strength) daily. People who are seniors, debilitated, malnourished, or have reduced kidney or liver function may need lower doses.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not take this medication if you:
- are allergic to pioglitazone, glimepiride, or any ingredients of the medication
- have diabetic ketoacidosis with or without coma
- have severe heart failure (NYHA Class III or IV)