Pioglitazone and Glimepiride
Duetact is a combination medication containing pioglitazone and glimepiride, used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults when single-agent therapy is insufficient. Pioglitazone improves insulin sensitivity, while glimepiride stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin, helping to lower blood glucose levels.
Duetact is a combination diabetes medication for type 2 diabetes that improves insulin sensitivity and stimulates insulin production.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 647208
- Generic
- Duetact
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Duetact is indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults when diet, exercise, and single-agent therapy with either pioglitazone or a sulfonylurea do not provide adequate blood glucose control.
This combination contains pioglitazone (a thiazolidinedione) that makes the body's tissues more responsive to insulin, and glimepiride (a sulfonylurea) that stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin. Together, they help lower blood glucose through complementary mechanisms.
Duetact is not indicated for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Common side effects include weight gain, edema, and hypoglycemia (especially when combined with other diabetes medications). Pioglitazone may cause or worsen heart failure, and there may be an increased risk of bladder cancer with pioglitazone use. Should not be used in patients with severe renal impairment. Contraindicated during pregnancy. Patients should be monitored for signs of heart failure and liver function during treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy