What is the most important information I should know about Actos?
* Usually, liver function is monitored with blood tests at the start of treatment, every two months for the first year of treatment, and periodically thereafter during treatment with Actos. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, yellow skin or eyes, or dark urine. These symptoms may be early signs of liver problems.
* Notify your doctor immediately if you experience an unusually rapid increase in weight or edema (water retention), shortness of breath, or chest pain during treatment with Actos. These may be early symptoms of heart problems.
* Actos usually does not cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). However, hypoglycemia may occur as a result of skipped meals, excessive exercise, or alcohol consumption while taking Actos. Know the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, which include headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you to treat episodes of low blood sugar.
* Actos may decrease the effects of some birth control pills. Additional measures may be necessary to prevent pregnancy while taking Actos. Talk to your doctor about the use of birth control.
What is Actos?
* Actos is an antihyperglycemic agent. It helps the body respond better to insulin and it reduces the amount of sugar produced by the liver. It can help control blood sugar levels.
* Actos is used, along with diet and exercise, in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Actos may also be used with a sulfonylurea (e.g., Diabeta, Glucotrol, Micronase, others), metformin (Glucophage), or insulin when diet and exercise plus any one of these medicines alone do not result in adequate blood sugar control.
* Actos may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Actos?
* Do not take Actos without first talking to your doctor if you have liver disease.
* Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you
o have heart failure or heart disease;
o have edema (water retention or swelling);