Pioglitazone (Actos)

Uses of Pioglitazone (Actos)

Actos is a type of oral antidiabetic medication that is classified as a thiazolidinedione (TZD) due to its insulin-sensing compounds. These compounds help the body to respond more effectively to its own insulin, resulting in a decrease in overall blood sugar levels. Additionally, Actos regulates the genes responsible for regulating sugar and fat metabolism in the body, thus reducing insulin resistance (when the cells in the body do not respond adequately to insulin), decreasing gluconeogenesis (sugar production in the liver) and resulting in lower blood sugar levels. As Actos does not directly induce the body to produce more insulin, it is unlikely to cause hypoglycemia, which is a frequent side effect of other oral antidiabetic drugs.

A generic prescription drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, Pioglitazone works by increasing the body’s sensitivity to the insulin present in the body. It is sold under the trade name Actos and is classified as a TZD (thiazolidinedione). It works best when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercises.

Precautions and Warnings

This medication may drop your blood sugar level. Always keep a sugar candy handy when you are on this medication. Additionally, do not take this medication if you are:

• Allergic to pioglitazone
• Heart health probelms
• Liver damage
• Impaired bladder or had bladder cancer, and bleed while urinating
• Planning pregnancy or are pregnant

Dosage

Always follow the dosage prescibed by the doctor. The usual dosage for Pioglitazone (Actos) is once daily with or without food.

Effects of Pioglitazone (Actos)

Common side effects:

• Edema (fluid retention or swelling)
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Obesity
• Liver problems
• Breakthrough bleeding (unexpected vaginal bleeding or spotting)
• Blurred vision (due to swelling [or fluid] in the back of the eye)
• Fractures
• Heart failure
• Liver problems
• Bladder cancer
• Pulmonary edema (fluid accumulation in the lungs)
• Anemia (low red blood cell count)
• Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat