Diabetes and ACTOS

ACTOS is used once a day to increase insulin sensitivity amongst type 2 diabetics. It fits into the antidiabetic drug class known as thiazolidinediones.

These anti-diabetes drugs help your body to use natural insulin.

Together with appropriate exercise and a healthy diet, ACTOS helps to lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes complications.

Why should I control type 2 diabetes?

Over a long period of time, uncontrolled type 2 diabetes can lead to major medical problems known as diabetes complications.

So ACTOS will help me treat type 2 diabetes all by itself?

ACTOS is designed to be used alongside healthy eating and physical activity. This diabetes drug works by reducing insulin resistance, helping to make your body more effectively use insulin.

ACTOS has been in the news recently with reports suggesting that it may double the risk of bladder cancer. Read more on ACTOS and it's link with bladder cancer

The body doesn’t therefore produce more insulin, but ACTOS helps the body respond to the way insulin works by sensitising it.

Does ACTOS increase stroke and heart attack risk?

ACTOS product information states that FDA-reviewed data proves no difference in macrovascular events between 5,000 patients taking ACTOS and those patients not taking ACTOS.

Certain patients, however, should not take ACTOS and will be advised by their doctor or healthcare professional not to do so.

Does ACTOS have serious side effect?

Every individual with diabetes is different. Some patients, such as those with heart failure, should stop taking ACTOS. Those patients that experience fast weight gain, fluid retention, shortness of breath and high levels of tiredness should speak to their doctor at once.

Side effects of ACTOS

Common side effects of ACTOS include:

• Respiratory tract infection
• Sinusitis
• Soreness of muscles
• Headache
• Sore throat

Weight gain may occur, as may edema and anemia. Visual changes have also been reported.

My doctor is suggesting ACTOS, what should I say?

Those patients intending to take ACTOS should tell their doctor if they have any history of congestive heart failure, liver issues, swelling, are pregnant or breast-feeding. Other prescription medicines should also be discussed.

How quickly will ACTOS affect me?

For suitable patients, ACTOS will start to work within 2 weeks and lower blood glucose levels.

How is ACTOS taken?

ACTOS should be taken once each day, with or without meals. If you miss a day, do not take extra to compensate.

Test your blood glucose regularly whilst taking ACTOS to monitor the effects, and have your A1c tested every 2-3 months.

Can I take ACTOS alongside other diabetes drugs?

ACTOS may be taken in combination with other medicines, but this is down to your doctor to decide and guide you.

Combining ACTOS with other diabetes medication can improve blood sugar levels.

Where should I keep my ACTOS?

ACTOS should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed container where moisture cannot get in.