Prescription Required
Description
Actos, also sold generically as its active ingredient, Pioglitazone, is a oral diabetic medicine that helps control blood sugar levels in those with type two diabetes. It is used together with diet and exercise to reach full effectiveness. This is not a medication used to treat diabetes type one. This medication may be used alone or with other medicines such as insulin, metformin, or sulfonylurea agents.
Pioglitazone works by assisting your body with how to use the insulin (a hormone) it creates in the pancreas. Insulin is what allows the body to use sugar (medically referred to as glucose) from the food you eat and turn it into energy, or to store it for future needs. It also keeps your blood sugar from getting too high. So when your body is not doing this correctly (in other words, when you have diabetes type two) that is when one would be prescribed Pioglitazone.
This medication is available in 15MG, 30MG and 45MG in both brand and generic choice.
Directions
Before taking your prescribed medication read all the instructions that was provided by your pharmacist.
Take Actos orally once a day, taken with or without food.
Make sure you take Actos at the same time each day to create a routine for yourself and to ensure an even spread of medication in your system. Actos should be taken on a regular basis to have optimal results. Do not change or increase your dose. You should continue taking this medication even if you feel well.
You may be also taking other medication along with Actos. Follow your doctors instruction on dose scheduling for all the medication you are taking to control your blood sugar levels. Checking your blood sugar levels regularly will help ensure a safe and effective treatment.
Cautions
This medication may contain medical and non medical ingredients that could cause an allergic reaction. Consult with your doctor about any known allergies before taking Actos. Speak with your doctor about any known medical conditions relating to heart disease, liver disease, fluid in your lungs, anemia and edema, and bladder cancer. Tell your doctor about any current medications or supplementation to avoid interactions with Actos.
Limit or avoid alcohol as it could cause blood sugar crashes. Additionally you may speak with your doctor on the acceptable limits of the substance while taking Actos.
While taking Actos you may feel dizzy, drowsy or experience blurred vision. Avoid driving a vehicle or operating heavy machinery until you feel it is safe. Alcohol and Cannabis can exasperate these side effects. Additionally you can speak with your doctor about acceptable limits for
Controlling blood sugar levels can be effected if the body is under stress, sick, or fighting infection. Speak with your doctor if any change in treatment plan is required to maintain your blood sugar levels.
There could be a risk of bone fracture for woman in the arm, hand or foot while taking Actos. Menstrual cycles can also be effected and increase the risk of pregnancy. Speak with your doctor about the birth control methods while taking Actos.
Side Effects
Some side effects can be:
cold or flu-like symptoms (such as stuffy nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat), headache, gradual weight gain, muscle pain, back pain, tooth problems, and mouth pain.
More serious side effects are:
nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, blood in the urine, dark urine, painful urination, urinating more than usual, shortness of breath, even with mild exertion, swelling or rapid weight gain, chest pain, feeling unwell (malaise), nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, loss of appetite, clay-colored stools, blurred vision, increased thirst or hunger, pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, weakness, yellowing skin or eyes (jaundice), and vision changes or loss.
If any side effects become unmanageable speak with your doctor or pharmacist for help in additional treatment. For any serious side effects speak with your doctor right away for further treatment options.
FAQs
What is Actos?
This medication is used to treat diabetes, and it should be used alongside a program that promotes a healthy diet and an exercise plan that can help control high blood sugar with patients with diabetes type 2. This medication works by restoring the body’s proper response to insulin, thereby lowering the blood sugar. This medication comes in three different strengths which are 15mg, 30mg and 45mg. If you have any questions regarding this medication or any inquiries in general, feel free to give us a call at our toll free number 1-877-385-8998.
What are the side effects of Actos?
Some of the most common side effects for this medication are as follows; Low blood suger, fluid retention, leg/arm/back and muscle pain, headache or muscle aches, dizziness, nose and throat irritation, weight gain, and diarrhea or gassiness. Keep in mind that these are not all of the side effects listed for this medication, and if you are experiencing any of these be sure to inform your doctor if they persist or worsen.
When to take Actos?
This medication should only be taken once a day and it can be taken with or without a meal. As for what time, either day or night that is something you should speak about with your doctor. Remember you dosage is based on your medical condition and your overall response to the treatment.
What is the generic name for Actos?
The generic name for Actos is known as Pioglitazone, which was approved for medical use in July of 1999.
How long does Actos take to work?
Once you begin treatment, it may take up to 2 to 3 months before you receive the full benefit from this medication. Keep in mind this does vary from person to person.
How much does Actos cost?
Actos falls in line with Medicare’s Tier 1 formulary. Tier 1 drugs are usually inexpensive generics, which also means Medicare may pay for part of the medication. However, you can find a more affordable option on an online Canadian Pharmacy such as My Drug Center. We have a starting price of $41.00 for 100 pills.
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