Description
Actos is an effective drug of the class thiazolidinedione (TZD) with hypoglycemic (antihyperglycemic, antidiabetic) action to treat diabetes mellitus type 2.
Actos contains the active ingredient Pioglitazone Hydrochloride.
Pioglitazone helps to lower blood glucose levels by increasing the sensitivity of liver, fat, and muscle cells to insulin; enables cells to remove glucose from the blood more effectively, reduces the amount of glucose produced by the liver, and preserves the functioning of the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.
Actos does not cause the body to make more insulin. Therefore, when used alone, it does not cause low blood glucose (hypoglycemia).
Actos is used either alone or in combination with other anti-diabetic medications (such as insulin, metformin, or a sulfonylurea such as glyburide).
Actos is not taken to treat type 1 diabetes.
Dosage
Take Actos by mouth with a full glass of water with or without food.
The initial dose of Actos is 15 mg once a day.
In case of inadequate glycemic control, the dose can be increased up to 45 mg once daily.
If hypoglycemia occurs in a patient co-administering Actos and insulin, the dose of insulin should be decreased by 10% to 25%. Further adjustments to the insulin dose should be individualized based on glycemic response.
Take the drug at the same time each day.
If you want to achieve the most effective results, do not stop taking Actos suddenly.
Missing a dose
Do not take a double dose. If you miss a dose, you should take it as soon as you remember about the missed dose. If it is the time for the next dose, you should continue your regular dosing schedule.
Overdose
If an overdose occurs and you are not feeling well, you should seek emergency medical attention or contact your health care provider immediately. You can experience the following symptoms of Actos overdose: signs of low blood sugar, such as extreme weakness, blurred vision, sweating, trouble speaking, tremors, stomach pain, confusion, and seizure (convulsions).
Storage
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F) and away from excess moisture and heat. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Keep out of the reach of children.
