Actoplus Met (Pioglitazone/Metformin)

Actoplus Met is a prescription medication that combines two active ingredients: pioglitazone and metformin. It is primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. Pioglitazone belongs to a class of medications called thiazolidinediones, which work by improving the body's sensitivity to insulin. By improving insulin sensitivity, pioglitazone helps lower blood sugar levels and regulate glucose metabolism. Metformin, on the other hand, is a medication from the biguanide class. It works by reducing the production of glucose in the liver, decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and increasing the body's response to insulin.

By combining pioglitazone and metformin, Actoplus Met aims to provide enhanced blood sugar control and address multiple aspects of the underlying mechanisms of type 2 diabetes.

Directions

The dosage for Actoplus Met should be determined by a healthcare professional, as they will consider various factors such as the patient's individual needs, medical history, and response to treatment.

Actoplus Met is available in oral tablets that contain different strengths:

• Actoplus Met 15 mg/500 mg: Each tablet contains 15 mg of pioglitazone and 500 mg of metformin HCl.
• Actoplus Met 15 mg/850 mg: Each tablet contains 15 mg of pioglitazone and 850 mg of metformin HCl.

Generally, Actoplus Met is taken orally, usually once or twice daily with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.

The specific dose may vary, but it typically starts with a low dose and is gradually increased as needed.

Ingredients

Actoplus Met contains pioglitazone hydrochloride and metformin hydrochloride as its active components.

Cautions

This medicine is not approved for use in individuals under 18 years old.

If you are allergic to metformin or pioglitazone, have severe heart failure, severe kidney disease, active bladder cancer, or metabolic acidosis, it is recommended to refrain from using this medication.

Inform your doctor if you have a history of kidney problems, heart problems, fluid retention, eye problems due to diabetes, bladder cancer, heart attack or stroke or liver disease.

This medication may increase the risk of bladder cancer, so discuss your individual risk with your doctor.

This medication carries the potential for the development of lactic acidosis.

Metformin may increase the risk of unintended pregnancy by stimulating ovulation in premenopausal women.

Women using metformin and pioglitazone may have a higher risk of bone fractures.

Interactions

This medication can have negative drug interactions with furosemide, glimepiride, glipizide, hydrochlorothiazide, Lantus, Lasix, levothyroxine, lisinopril, Lyrica, metformin, levothyroxine, among others. Before starting Actoplus Met, it is important to consult your doctor regarding your medications, allergies, medical history, and pregnancy/breastfeeding status.

Side Effects

Common side effects associated with Actoplus Met include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, indigestion, loss of appetite, weight gain, headache, muscle pain, edema, or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). If you experience any other side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

When evaluating treatment options for type 2 diabetes mellitus, it is crucial to consider factors such as effectiveness, potential side effects, and the Actoplus Met cost.