The pancreas is a gland that is located in the upper abdominal cavity behind the stomach and below the liver. The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes that assist with the digestion of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Actos is the brand name of the generic drug pioglitazone; it is an oral antidiabetic drug that helps control blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetics, according to MedlinePlus. An excess of Actos may cause adverse effects on the pancreas.
Inflammation of Pancreas
Patients who consume excess Actos may develop pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, according to Drugs.com. Pancreas inflammation may be acute or chronic. A single overdose of Actos may cause acute pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis may occur when the pancreas is continuously exposed to high levels of Actos. Signs and symptoms of pancreatitis include abdominal pain, fatty stools, fever, chills, nausea, sweating, vomiting and weakness.
Permanent Pancreas Damage
A single overdose of Actos may lead to permanent pancreas damage in some patients, according to Drugs.com. Permanent damage of the pancreas occurs when the Actos damages pancreas cells, which leads to scarring. Patients with permanent pancreas damage are prescribed pancreatic enzymes to take with food to aid in digestion.
Worsening of Diabetes
The pancreas releases insulin and glucagon, hormones that control blood glucose levels, according to MedlinePlus. Type 2 diabetics are able to secrete insulin, but their bodies are unable to effectively utilize it. Excess intake of Actos damages the pancreas and leads to lowered secretions of insulin and glucagon in type 2 diabetics. Symptoms of diabetes worsen in such patients and they may require insulin injections to control blood glucose levels.
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