Actos

Definition

Actos, also known by its generic name pioglitazone, is an oral antidiabetic drug used to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It belongs to the thiazolidinedione class and works by increasing insulin sensitivity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Actos helps improve insulin sensitivity in muscle and adipose tissue.
2. It is often prescribed when diet and exercise alone do not adequately control blood glucose levels.
3. Common side effects include weight gain, edema, and an increased risk of heart failure in some patients.
4. Actos is contraindicated in patients with severe heart failure (NYHA Class III or IV).
5. Regular monitoring of liver enzymes is recommended due to the potential for hepatotoxicity.

Review Questions

• What class of medication does Actos belong to?
• Name two common side effects associated with Actos.
• Why should liver enzymes be monitored in patients taking Actos?

Related terms

Metformin:

An oral antidiabetic drug that primarily decreases hepatic glucose production.

Sulfonylureas:

A class of oral antidiabetic drugs that stimulate insulin release from pancreatic beta cells.

DPP-4 Inhibitors: Oral medications that work by inhibiting the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4, thereby increasing incretin levels.