How to use
Generic Actos (Pioglitazone) should be taken orally, once a day, with or without food. Your doctor will prescribe the right dosage for you based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Follow his instructions exactly.
To enjoy the maximum benefits of Generic Actos (Pioglitazone), you should take this medication regularly and at approximately the same time each day.
Overdose
If you think you have taken too much of this medication, you should contact your local poison control center or the emergency medical services immediately.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Generic Actos (Pioglitazone), you should take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dosage, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. Do not double up on this medication to make up for a missed dose.
Notes
Generic Actos (Pioglitazone) - like all other anti-diabetes medication - only works optimally in combination with a healthy diet and exercise regime.
Note that this medication is only effective for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and should not be used by patients with type 1 or insulin-dependent diabetes.
Do not share this medication with others as they may have a condition that is not adequately treated with Generic Actos (Pioglitazone).
Storage
Store Generic Actos (Pioglitazone) at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) and away from light and moisture. KEEP THIS AND ALL MEDICATIONS OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
Important note
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed that the taking of this medication is safe, appropriate or effective for you.
* Illustrations are for graphic purposes only and the ordered medication may differ in appearance.
The following common side effects of Generic Actos (Pioglitazone) may occur:
- Sore throat
- Muscle pain
- Tooth problems
These effects should go away with time. Notify your doctor if any of them persist or worsen.
Notify your doctor straightaway if you experience any of these unlikely but serious side effects:
- Fast or pounding heartbeat
- Changes in menstrual cycles
- New or worsening vision problems (e.g. color or night vision problems)
- Bone fracture
Tell your doctor immediately if any of the following highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur:
- Dark urine
- Yellowing of eye or skin
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Stomach or abdominal pain.
Generic Actos (Pioglitazone) does not usually cause hypoglycemia. However, if you take other anti-diabetes medication, drink too much alcohol, do not consume enough calories or exercise too heavily, low blood sugar may occur. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include:
- Cold sweats
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Shaking
- Fast heartbeat
- Headache
- Fainting
- Tingling of the hands or feet
- Hunger
Carry glucose tablets or sugary snacks with you at all times, in case you experience low blood sugar. To help prevent hypoglycemia, you should eat regularly and not skip meals.
Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) include:
- Thirst
- Increased urination
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Flushing
- Rapid breathing
- Fruity breath odor
If you experience any of the above symptoms, you should inform your doctor straightaway, as you may require a dosage increase.
Infrequently, Generic Actos (Pioglitazone) may cause or worsen certain heart problems. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms of heart failure:
- Swelling of the hands or feet
- Unusual or sudden weight gain
- Trouble breathing
- Unusual tiredness
In rare cases, you may experience a severe allergic reaction to Generic Actos (Pioglitazone). Seek immediate medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Rash
- Itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat)
- Dizziness
- Trouble breathing
This is only a partial list and other side effects may occur. Notify your doctor straightaway if you experience any side effects other than the ones mentioned above, especially if they are bothersome.
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