Pioglitazone

Pioglitazone (Actos) is an oral medication that is used to help decrease insulin resistance in some people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Pioglitazone’s mechanism of action depends on the presence of insulin and is believed to include reducing insulin levels in circulation, improving insulin sensitivity in fat and muscle tissue, and blocking the release of glucose by the liver. Pioglitazone belongs to a class of medications known as thiazolidinediones and is a selective agonist for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARg). Pioglitzone does not cause insulin secretion like the medications glimepiride, glipizide and glyburide do.

Pioglitazone (Actos) can cause side effects when used. Side effects that can result from pioglitazone use include headache, upper respiratory infection, muscle aches, sinus pain and worsening of one’s underlying diabetes. Hypoglycemia is a risk from taking pioglitazone. Pioglitazone can also increase the risk of getting bladder cancer, heart failure and eye problems and should be used under the close supervision of a medical provider given these risks. People who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to pioglitazone, Actos or ingredients in the formulation should not use the medication. Pioglitazone and alcohol should not be used together. Before using pioglitazone HCl, it is important to discuss concerns and potential side effects that may occur while using Actos medication with a licensed pharmacist and medical provider.

Actos is relatively affordable, costing under 40 cents per pioglitazone 30 mg tablet at many pharmacies. Some people may be able to find pioglitazone coupons online and insurance plans may also help cover some or all of the costs associated with a pioglitazone hydrochloride tablet prescription. Farmington Drugs & Medical Supplies takes pride in offering the most cost efficient services and prescriptions to our patients.

As Actos, pioglitazone is available as pioglitazone 15 mg tablets, pioglitazone 30 mg tablets, and pioglitazone 55 mg tablets. Pioglitazone itself is a white crystalline powder that has no odor and does not dissolve well in water. After once daily dosing, pioglitazone concentrations in the serum stay high for 24 hours with a steady state reached in approximately one week. Peak pioglitazone concentrations in the serum are generally observed within 120 minutes. The half-life of total pioglitazone is usually less than one day and it is presumed that the majority of the medication is excreted in the feces.

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Given the evolving nature of medicine and science, this information might not be accurate and should not be construed as medical advice or diagnosis / treatment recommendations. Please consult a licensed medical provider if you have additional questions.