What is this medication for?
Pioglitazone is used to treat a certain type of diabetes mellitus (type 2 diabetes, formerly known as non-insulin dependent diabetes). The medication reduces the level of blood glucose (sugar in the blood) by helping insulin work and enabling the body to use glucose more effectively.
When used in combination with a proper diet (with or without other diabetes medications), this medication will help to control blood glucose levels effectively and reduce the risk of complications of diabetes (e.g., kidney disease, eye problems, nerve problems).
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The usual starting dose for adults is 15 mg or 30 mg taken once a day, with or without food, at the same time each day. Diet and exercise programs should be continued while taking pioglitazone. Your doctor may decide to increase the dose of pioglitazone to 45 mg daily if the lower doses do not sufficiently reduce your blood sugar levels.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
Pioglitazone may be taken with or without food. It should be taken at the same time each day for optimal control of blood sugar levels.
Pioglitazone can be used either alone or together with other antidiabetes medications (e.g., glyburide, metformin, insulin).
It is important that this medication be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, use it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Pioglitazone should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to pioglitazone or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- has severe heart failure (NYHA Class III or IV)
