In people with type 2 diabetes, a group of drugs called thiazolidinediones, including pioglitazone, can silently damage the heart. These pills can cause fluid buildup, leg swelling, and even congestive heart failure, especially in people over 60.
Even more concerning, these pills can mask early symptoms of heart failure, such as fatigue or shortness of breath. Seniors with diabetes are already at high risk for heart disease, and adding a medication that strains the heart becomes a dangerous combination.
Sleeping Pills and Tranquilizers: Risks at Night
Many older adults use sedative-hypnotics like zolpidem or older medications like diazepam. These pills slow the entire nervous system, including heart rate and blood pressure, reducing the body's ability to respond to stress or oxygen demands during sleep.
These medications can cause sleep apnea or worsen existing apnea, putting enormous strain on the heart and potentially leading to dangerous heart rhythm disturbances. They can also interfere with essential heart medications, such as beta-blockers.
continued on next pageDiabetes Medications: Beware of Thiazolidinediones