ACTOS(pioglitazone HCl)
ACTOS(pioglitazone HCl) is an oral antidiabetic agent for type 2 diabetes belonging to the thiazolidinedione (TZD) class of drugs. TZDs are PPAR (pee–par gamma) agonists. PPAR regulates the expression of genes believed to be important in fat and glucose (sugar) metabolism.
As an agonist, TZDs bind to PPAR, which can reduce insulin resistance and may improve blood glucose levels. A primary site of action seems to be in adipose (fatty) tissue. PPAR agonists have been the first drugs to address the basic problem of insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes.
TZDs help lower insulin resistance, a core dysfunction in people with type 2 diabetes. They act by helping the body use its available amounts of insulin more effectively. Pioglitazone is known as an "insulin sensitizer" because it directly targets insulin resistance, a condition in which the body cannot use the insulin it produces efficiently.
As an adjunct to diet and exercise, pioglitazone can help improve blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. It helps the body become more sensitive to the insulin it produces. It is taken once a day without regard to meals, and can be used alone or in combination with insulin, metformin or sulfonylureas. Additionally, among oral anti–diabetic medications, pioglitazone has been shown to provide unique lipid effects, such as both decreasing triglycerides and increasing HDL–C (“good” cholesterol) levels.
Additional Information
ACTOS is not for everyone. ACTOS can cause fluid retention that may lead to or worsen heart failure, so tell your doctor if you have a history of these conditions. Talk to your doctor immediately if you experience rapid weight gain, fluid retention, or shortness of breath while taking ACTOS. If you have moderate to severe heart failure, ACTOS is not recommended. Your doctor should perform a blood test to check for liver problems before you start ACTOS and periodically thereafter.
Do not take ACTOS if you have active liver disease. Talk to your doctor immediately if you experience nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin. If you are of childbearing age, talk to your doctor before taking ACTOS as it could increase your chance of becoming pregnant. Some people taking ACTOS may experience flu–like symptoms, mild to moderate swelling of legs and ankles, and anemia. When taking ACTOS with insulin or sulfonylureas, you may be at risk for low blood glucose.
For more information on pioglitazone, please see the complete Prescribing Information available by visiting the ACTOS Web site ACTOS.com
