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
- Actos helps improve insulin sensitivity in muscle and adipose tissue.
- It is often prescribed when diet and exercise alone do not adequately control blood glucose levels.
- Common side effects include weight gain, edema, and an increased risk of heart failure in some patients.
- Actos is contraindicated in patients with severe heart failure (NYHA Class III or IV).
- 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?
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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.
