Actos (Pioglitazone)

What is the brand name for this medicine?
ACTOS

What is this medicine used for?
This medicine is used for the oral treatment of type 2 diabetes. Control of this type of diabetes is usually accomplished with a combination of diet, weight management, exercise, and medications.

How is this medicine taken?
This medicine may be taken with or without food. Skipping meals while taking this medicine is not advised. This can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). The tablets may be crushed to make it easer to take.

What if I miss a dose?
Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses.

How is this medicine stored?
Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Keep away from heat and light.

Are there side effects?
Possible side effects from this medicine may include weight gain, fluid retention, headache, back pain, and possible sinusitis.

Are there precautions with this medicine?
Yes, notify your doctor if you have high blood pressure, kidney or liver disease. Also this drug is not a substitute for a properly prescribed diet, insulin and regular exercise. Your doctor will want to check your liver before and during treatment with this medicine. Report to your doctor any signs of liver problems including; nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, dark urine or jaundice.

What about interactions with other drugs?
Interactions with other drugs include the following; when this medicine is given with birth-control pills, the effectiveness may be significantly reduced. You should use other forms of backup contraception to prevent pregnancy.

Can I take this medicine if I’m pregnant or breast-feeding?
If you plan on becoming pregnant, talk to your doctor. You and your doctor can discuss the benefits versus the risks of taking this medicine during pregnancy. Some experts recommend using insulin to control diabetes during pregnancy. This medicine is excreted in the breast milk and should not be used during pregnancy.

General Information:
Using chromium may change the way your body uses sugar. Hawthorn, ginger, garlic, ginseng may affect blood sugar. For more information, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.