Actos

Pioglitazone

Actos is used to treat type 2 diabetes by increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin to help control blood sugar levels.

Actos may cause side effects, and patients should contact their doctor if any of the following effects are severe or persistent:

• sinus or respiratory infection
• headache
• muscle pain
• tooth or mouth pain
• sore throat
• weight gain
• swelling of the ankles or feet
• difficulty breathing
• rapid weight gain
• swelling of the ankles or feet that happens very quickly
• stomach pain
• excessive tiredness
• dark urine
• yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes

Patients taking Actos may experience low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. A doctor should be contacted immediately if a patient experiences any of the following symptoms:

• shakiness
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• sweating
• nervousness or irritability
• sudden changes in behavior or mood
• headache
• numbness or tingling around the mouth
• weakness
• pale skin
• hunger
• clumsy or jerky movements
• confusion
• seizures
• loss of consciousness

Patients may also develop hyperblycemia, or high blood sugar. A doctor should also be contacted if a patient has any of the following symptoms:

• extreme thirst
• frequent urination
• extreme hunger
• weakness
• blurred vision
• dry mouth
• upset stomach and vomiting
• shortness of breath
• breath that smells fruity
• decreased consciousness

Source: “Pioglitazone,” MedlinePlus Drug Information Sheet, April 1, 2007.