Description
Generic Name: pioglitazone hydrochloride
Drug Class: thiazolidinediones
Actos Indications
Actos is an oral prescription drug used to improve glycemic control among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This is prescribed together with proper diet and exercise. It is not indicated for type 1 diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis.
Actos Dosage Forms
This is available in Actos 15 mg, 30 mg, and 45 mg tablets.
Actos Mechanism of Action
This drug activates proliferator-activated receptor-gamma nuclear receptors, responsible for regulating the transcription of the insulin-responsive gene involved in regulating the metabolism of fatty acids. By improving insulin sensitivity, blood sugar levels or glucose concentrations are decreased, and so is hyperinsulinemia.
How to Take Actos
Before taking Actos, it is necessary to read a healthcare professional’s information leaflet or medication guide. Before taking a medication, make sure you understand its purpose and directions. For further medical advice or additional details, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Actos is usually prescribed once a day. It is only meant to be taken by mouth and with or without a meal. Drink fluids right after swallowing the tablet. Make a dosing schedule. Do not increase or decrease your Actos dosage. You should also not take this oral medication more frequently than advised.
It is important to eat well and exercise regularly in conjunction with this diabetes medication. It may not work as well if lifestyle changes are not applied. Always eat a healthy balanced meal and do exercise regularly. Exercise regularly and eat a healthy balanced diet.
Actos Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Headache
-Stuffy nose
-Gradual weight gain
-Muscle pain
-Back pain
-Tooth problems
Severe Side Effects:
-Blurred vision
-Painful urination
-Reddish urine
-Urinary urgency
-Bone fracture
-Persistent nausea and vomiting
-Dark urine
-Severe abdominal pain
-Low blood sugar
-High blood sugar
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Actos.
If adverse reactions persist or are severe, discontinue medications and contact your physician.
Warnings and Precautions when using Actos
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to pioglitazone or any inactive ingredients the tablet may contain. Symptoms of severe allergic reactions include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, and hives/itchiness. It is important to stop using this medication as soon as possible if you notice this side effect.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of heart disease, edema, fluid in the lungs, anemia, liver disease, bladder cancer, and macular edema. Also, in order to avoid possible drug interactions, all prescription medications, nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking should be discussed.
Dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision are commonly experienced when the blood sugar is too high or too low. Safety precautions should be taken when doing tasks that require alertness and clarity of vision.
Restrict your intake of alcoholic beverages. Alcohol can trigger certain adverse effects. It can also increase the risk of low blood sugar or hypoglycemia.
Actos can cause menstrual changes and promote ovulation. Thus, increasing the chance of getting pregnant. If necessary, talk to your healthcare provider about reliable and safe birth control methods.
Pregnant and breastfeeding moms must take Actos only if absolutely necessary. Discussing with a healthcare professional about all possible risks is crucial. Additionally, pregnancy can either cause or worsen diabetes. Talk to the doctor about changes in the treatment plan.
How much does Actos cost in Canada?
PharmaPassport.com offers affordable prices on this medication. We also offer generic for a much lower price. Check the top of this page for your options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Actos medication used for?
Actos (generic name: pioglitazone) is being used to manage type 2 diabetes. It is also given to prevent complications like stroke, heart attacks, kidney damage, and blindness.
What is the best time to take Actos?
You may take this diabetes medication any time of the day, provided that it is administered at the same time each day. There is no recommended time to take this drug.
Can I cut Actos in half?
It is best to swallow this tablet entirely. Cutting, dissolving, or crushing this drug is not recommended by the manufacturer.
Can I take Actos and metformin together?
There are no interactions found between these drugs. It is safe to take pioglitazone and metformin together.
Can Actos cause weight gain?
This oral medication can cause gradual and modest weight gain. If you experience sudden and unusual weight changes, notify your physician immediately.
Is Actos available over the counter?
This product is a prescription medication for diabetes. To dispense this medication, you must have a valid prescription.