Actos is a brand name for the medicine pioglitazone hydrochloride, an oral antidiabetic prescription medication that works to lower insulin resistance in the body. Insulin is a hormone that is essential to transport glucose or sugars in the blood to the cells of the body where they can be used for energy or stored. When the body develops a resistance to insulin, Type 2 diabetes mellitus can result. RxList.com notes that Actos also acts by inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis or glucose production by the liver. This helps to decrease hyperglycemia or high levels of glucose in the blood to control the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes. As with all medications, some unwanted side effects can occur due to Actos.
Edema, Headache, Sinusitis
General side effects of Actos are typically not a cause for concern and may only occur when this medication is used in combination with other antidiabetic drugs such as metformin or insulin. Drugs.com notes that these effects include edema of the lower legs, headaches and an increased risk for sinusitis and upper respiratory tract infections.
Hypoglycemia
As Actos affects the hormone insulin, an endocrine or hormonal side effect in the body includes mild or moderate hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. As the body uses insulin more effectively with the help of this medication, more glucose is transferred from the blood to the body muscles and tissues.
Anemia
Hematologic or blood side effects of Actos have been reported to include anemia due to a decrease in the oxygen-carrying blood protein hemoglobin. RxList.com advises, however, that this side effect is rare and is more likely to occur in patients that are also taking metformin and insulin.
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