PIOGLITAZONE/METFORMIN EXTENDED-RELEASE - ORAL
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (PYE-oh-GLI-ta-zone/met-FOR-min)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Actoplus Met XR
GENERIC NAME(S): pioglitazone HCl/metformin HCl
Uses
USES: This combination medication is used along with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Pioglitazone belongs to a class of drugs known as thiazolidinediones or "glitazones". Metformin and pioglitazone work by helping to restore your body's proper response to the insulin you naturally produce. Metformin also decreases the amount of sugar that your liver makes and that your stomach/intestines absorb. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using pioglitazone-containing products.
How to use PIOGLITAZONE/METFORMIN EXTENDED-RELEASE - ORAL
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking pioglitazone/metformin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily with the evening meal to decrease stomach upset. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split the tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). To reduce your risk of side effects (such as upset stomach), your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. If you are already taking another diabetes medication, follow your doctor's directions carefully for stopping/continuing the old drug and starting this medication. Check your blood sugar regularly as directed by your doctor. Keep track of the results, and share them with your doctor. Tell your doctor if your blood sugar measurements are too high or too low. Your dosage/treatment may need to be changed. It may take up to 2 to 3 months before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.
Side Effects
Precautions
Interactions
Overdose
Images
- color
- white
- shape
- round
- imprint
- 4833X, 30-1000
- color
- white
- shape
- round
- imprint
- 4833X 15/1000
Reviews
Faq for PIOGLITAZONE/METFORMIN EXTENDED-RELEASE - ORAL
Pioglitazone/Metformin extended-release is a combination medication used to control blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. It contains two active ingredients, pioglitazone and metformin, which work together to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce glucose production in the liver.
Pioglitazone/Metformin extended-release should be taken orally, usually once a day with the evening meal. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and take the medication as prescribed.
Common side effects may include diarrhea, upset stomach, headache, weight gain, and difficulty sleeping. If any side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.
Pioglitazone/Metformin extended-release can be used as monotherapy for patients whose blood sugar levels are not adequately controlled with diet and exercise alone. It can also be used in combination with other antidiabetic medications, such as insulin or sulfonylureas, as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Patients with a history of heart failure, liver disease, bladder cancer, or hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients in the medication should avoid using Pioglitazone/Metformin extended-release. It is important to inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions you have before starting the treatment.
It may take several weeks for Pioglitazone/Metformin extended-release to effectively control blood sugar levels. It is important to monitor your blood sugar regularly and follow up with your healthcare provider to assess the medication's effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments.
Pioglitazone/Metformin extended-release is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It is a combination of two drugs, pioglitazone and metformin, that work together to help control blood sugar levels.
Pioglitazone/Metformin extended-release works by increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin and reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver. This helps to lower blood sugar levels and improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Pioglitazone/Metformin extended-release may increase the risk of developing heart failure or bladder cancer. It is important to discuss your medical history, including any heart or liver problems, with your healthcare provider before starting this medication. Regular monitoring of liver function and bladder health is also recommended.
Pioglitazone/Metformin extended-release may interact with other medications, including certain blood pressure medications, certain antifungals, and oral contraceptives, among others. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid any potential interactions.
Pioglitazone/Metformin extended-release should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider. It is usually taken once daily with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Do not crush or chew the tablets, as they are designed to release the medication slowly. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider for the best results.
Warning
WARNING: Pioglitazone may rarely cause or worsen a certain heart problem (heart failure). Tell your doctor right away if you notice any symptoms of heart failure, including: shortness of breath, swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, unusual/sudden weight gain. This medication is not recommended for people with certain types of heart failure. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have heart failure. Rarely, too much metformin can build up in the body and cause a serious (sometimes fatal) condition called lactic acidosis. Lactic acidosis is more likely if you are an older adult, if you have kidney or liver disease, dehydration, heart failure, heavy alcohol use, if you have surgery, if you have X-ray or scanning procedures that use iodinated contrast, or if you are using certain drugs. For some conditions, your doctor may tell you to stop taking this medication for a short time. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Stop taking this medication and get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of lactic acidosis, such as unusual tiredness, dizziness, severe drowsiness, chills, blue/cold skin, muscle pain, fast/difficult breathing, slow/irregular heartbeat, or stomach pain with nausea/vomiting/diarrhea.
Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
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