Pioglitazone

( Actos )

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Nov 09, 2023

Pros & Cons


Pioglitazone Pros and Cons

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  • Pioglitazone is effective in controlling high blood sugar and lowering hemoglobin A1c levels (HbA1c is an indication of blood sugar control over the past 3 months). By controlling blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes, this medicine can lower your risk of serious health problems like heart attack and stroke.
  • You only need to take pioglitazone once daily.
  • You can take this medicine with or without food.
  • There is a lower-cost generic available.

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  • Pioglitazone is not the first-choice medicine for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
  • It is available only in tablet form.
  • It can take 2-3 months to get the full benefits of this medicine.
  • Pioglitazone can cause fluid build-up and worsen or cause congestive heart failure.