Generic Name: PIOGLITAZONE - ORAL
Pronounced: (PYE-oh-GLI-ta-zone)

Actos Oral Precautions

Before taking pioglitazone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:

• heart disease (such as congestive heart failure, chest pain)
• diabetic ketoacidosis
• liver disease
• fluid in your lungs
• swelling (edema)
• anemia
• a certain eye problem (macular edema)
• bladder cancer

You may experience blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness due to extremely low or high blood sugar levels. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

Limit alcohol while taking this medication because it can increase the risk of developing low blood sugar.

It may be harder to control your blood sugar when your body is stressed (such as due to fever, infection, injury, or surgery). Consult your doctor because increased stress may require a change in your treatment plan, medications, or blood sugar testing.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Pioglitazone may increase the risk of bone fracture in women (usually in the upper arm, hand, or foot). See also Notes section.

Pioglitazone can cause changes in the menstrual cycle (promote ovulation) and increase the risk of becoming pregnant. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about the use of reliable birth control while using this medication.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Your doctor may substitute insulin for this drug during your pregnancy. Follow all instructions carefully.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Actos Oral Side Effects

See also Warning section.

Sore throat, muscle pain, weight gain, or tooth problems may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if either of these serious side effects occurs:

• new/worsening vision problems (such as blurred vision)
• bone fracture
• reddish-colored urine
• urgent need to urinate
• pain while urinating

Pioglitazone may rarely cause liver disease. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms of liver disease, including:

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