Brand: Actos
Generic: Pioglitazone Hydrochloride
Actos is a drug used for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It contains pioglitazone hydrochloride which is a type of anti-diabetic drug known as a thiazolidinedione that depends on the presence of insulin for its action.
Actos is available in 15-mg, 30-mg and 45-mg tablets.
Instructions
You should read the product information leaflet before taking Actos. This drug is taken by mouth with or without food according to your doctor’s instructions.
The usual dose is once daily. Your doctor may base the dosage on your medical condition and if you are using other drugs for diabetes. The maximum recommended dose for pioglitazone is 45 milligrams each day.
You should be able to check your blood sugar regularly as instructed by your doctor. Record results and show them to your doctor during follow-up.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. Continue to use it as prescribed by your doctor or as stated on the package label.
Interactions
Actos may interact with the following medications:
- Gemfibrozil
- Rifamycins including rifampin
Side Effects
There are no side effects known aside from a possible allergic reaction in people who have previous or unknown hypersensitivity to the drug.
Watch out for signs of allergic reactions such as:
- Rash
- Itching
- Swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs
Warnings
Before taking pioglitazone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any of the following:
- Allergy to Pioglitazone or to similar drugs
- Heart disease such as congestive heart failure and chest pain
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Liver disease
- Fluid in your lungs
- Swelling or edema
- Anemia
- A certain eye problem known as macular edema
- Bladder cancer
