About Actoplus

The information below should not be taken as a substitute for qualified medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking Actoplus.

Actoplus Met is a medication used to control type 2 diabetes. Actoplus Met is composed of two diabetes medications: metformin and pioglitazone. Pioglitazone works by decreasing insulin resistance in the liver. Metformin works by decreasing glucose production by the liver, decreasing the intestines' ability to absorb glucose into the bloodstream, and improving sensitivity to insulin. Both of these drugs taken together result in better glycemic control for people with type 2 diabetes. Actoplus Met is only used to treat patients with type 2 diabetes who are not taking insulin; it is not effective in treatment of type 1 diabetes.

Actoplus Met should be taken with a meal. People with type 2 diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly. Many medications can interfere with the effects of Actoplus Met; tell your doctor about all medications or supplements you are taking before taking Actoplus Met.

Side effects of Actoplus Met include headache, diarrhea, upset stomach, and cold symptoms. One possible serious side effect of metformin that requires immediate medical attention is the development of lactic acidosis, a life-threatening condition. If you have symptoms of lactic acidosis, such as muscle pain, muscle weakness, numbness in the extremities, dizziness, difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting along with stomach pain, and slow and irregular heart rate. Pioglitazone can cause congestive heart failure in rare cases, or exacerbate the condition if it already exists. Seek immediate medical attention if you have swelling in the limbs, shortness of breath when lying down, sudden pain in the limbs, rapid heart rate, pale skin, or lightheadedness. If you have dark-colored urine, low fever, discolored stools, or jaundice, seek medical attention immediately.

What is Pioglitazone/Metformin?

Pioglitazone and Metformin are the generic drugs used in the manufacturing of Actoplus and can be purchased as a cheaper alternative to Actoplus to save money on your medication. The same active ingredients are used in the manufacturing of the brand name version of this drug as in Pioglitazone/Metformin.