What is Actos?
Actos is a prescription medication taken by people who have type 2 diabetes. It is not for people with type 1 diabetes. Actos, also known as pioglitazone, is used to control blood sugar levels and may be combined with insulin or other drugs to treat a person’s type 2 diabetes. Diet and exercise are recommended for people with diabetes, and this medication is considered a supplement to that lifestyle.
This article has been provided as an educational resource only, for more information on Actos lawsuits contact an experienced attorney.
How To Take Actos?
Actos comes in 15, 30 and 45 milligram round, white tablets. They are taken once a day, with or without a meal. Patients should take their medication according to their doctor’s orders. Dosage may be adjusted by the physician. Blood sugar levels should be checked often and any new symptoms should be discussed with the attending physician. People taking this medication should take care of their health and have sugar available to them in case their blood sugar levels are low. Actos should be taken according to the program that the doctor has suggested.
If a person misses a dose, then they should take it as soon as possible; however, if it is close to the next dosage time, then they should skip it and resume their normal schedule. If a person overdoses, then they should seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible. It is recommended that people taking Actos do not drink alcohol because it can lower blood sugar levels and effect the treatment of the medication.
Side Effects
Allergic reactions to Actos are possible. If a person experiences hives, swelling or difficulty breathing, they should seek medical attention immediately. Other side effects include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, chest or stomach pain, blurred vision, dark urine, yellow skin, shortness of breath, signs of a cold, rapid weight gain and muscle pain. Certain other medications may also cause side effects, so patients should inform their doctors on all the medications they are taking to avoid any serious side effects.
Other Notes
- People who have severe heart failure, heart disease, liver disease, fluid retention or a history of heart attack or stroke should speak with their doctor before taking Actos.
- Actos can increase a woman’s chance of becoming pregnant. Birth control or contraceptives may be necessary if a woman does not want to get pregnant.
- Bone fractures in the upper arm, hand or foot are likely to occur in women more than men.
- Actos will not increase or reduce the risk of heart attacks or strokes.
This article is for information purposes only. Discuss dosage and treatment plans with a licensed physician before self medicating. This is not legal advice, but general information about Actos.
Goldberg & Osborne, a personal injury law firm, has provided this article for informational purposes only, written by an independent author, and has not reviewed or edited this article and is not responsible for its content or accuracy.