Actos

Active Ingredients:

• Pioglitazone

How does Actos work and what pharmaceutical group does it belong to?

Actos contains the active ingredient pioglitazone that is hypoglycemic preparation. Actos is a selective agonist of gamma-receptors that are activated by the peroxisome proliferators (PPARγ). PPARγ-receptors are located in the fat, muscular tissue and in the liver. The activation of the PPARγ-receptors modulates the transcription of some genes that are sensitive to insulin and control glucose blood levels and lipid metabolism. Actos lowers insulin resistance in the peripheral tissue and liver. This helps to increase the consumption of glucose and decrease its release from the liver. Pioglitazone does not stimulate the secretion of insulin by β-cells of the pancreatic gland.

Which conditions are treated with Actos ?

Actos is indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (also known as noninsulin-dependent diabetes or adult-onset diabetes)

What should a patient know prior to taking the medication?

Actos should not be taken in the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity to any of the medication ingredients
• Type 1 diabetes
• Severe cardiovascular diseases
• Severe liver diseases
• An upcoming surgical interventions
• Diabetic ketoacidosis
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding

Which adverse effects may manifest when using the medication?

The most common side effects of Actos include: infections of the upper respiratory system, headache, infections, muscle pain, tooth problem, sore throat, swelling and edema.

In rare cases Actos may cause: symptoms of high blood sugar, symptoms of low blood sugar, problems with breathing, rapid weight gain, liver problems, vision changes.

It is not necessary that the side effects will manifest in an individual but the possibility still exist. For more information please consult your health care provider.

Which groups of drugs or specific preparations may interact with Actos ?

The drug is affected by the following:

• Antivirals
• Antiseizures preparations
• Antimycotics
• Oral contraceptives
• Antibiotics
• Sedatives

Tell your doctor about all the herbal preparations as well as prescription drugs that you are currently taking even if they are not on the list.

Important information for the patient:

Actos is supplied for individual use. Do not use it to treat other conditions not listed in the leaflet. Keep the product out of children reach. Do not reuse any disposable materials if supplied with the preparation.