GP and surgeon, Dr Shane Charles (MBBS, MRCS, PgDip SEM) provides a simple explanation of the medication below:

'Actos (Pioglitazone) is an agent used in the management of type-2 diabetes mellitus that works by increasing the body's insulin sensitivity. '.

If you think Actos is a treatment that can help you, start an online consultation now for a registered prescriber to review. If treatment is deemed suitable, they can prescribe it, and we can deliver it to you from the comfort of your own home with a range of convenient delivery and payment options for you to choose from. If you have any questions about a medication, you should always consult your doctor with any questions prior to starting treatment, to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

Actos is an oral medication that is used to help treat type 2 diabetes. This medication is particularly useful for those who are unable to use other diabetes medications such as Metformin.

Pioglitazone

Actos contains pioglitazone. This is an anti-diabetic medication. This medication helps to control the level of sugar in the blood of those who have type 2 diabetes by helping the body to make better use of the insulin it produces.

Actos should always be used as it has been prescribed to you by your healthcare provider. Usually, this medication will be prescribed to be used once a day.

You should only ever use the dosage of medication that you have been told to use by your healthcare provider. The usual starting dosage of Actos is one tablet taken once a day of either 15mg or 30mg strength. Your dosage may be altered depending on the advice of your doctor.

Actos is a suitable medication for adults over the age of 18 years old who are suffering from type 2 diabetes. It is an especially effective medication for those who are unable to use Metformin.

Actos may not be suitable for some people to use. You should not use this medication if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the medication. Actos should not be used by anyone under the age of 18 years. Do not use Actos if:

• You have suffered from heart disease or heart failure
• You have liver disease
• You have diabetic ketoacidosis
• You have ever had bladder cancer
• You have blood in your urine that has not been checked by a doctor

No, you should not use Actos if you are pregnant or if you are trying to become pregnant. If you are pregnant, your doctor will normally advise you to stop using Actos. 

No, you should not use Actos whilst breastfeeding. If you are using this medication whilst breastfeeding your doctor will advise you to stop one or the other. 

Actos may interact with other medications you may be taking. It is important to let your doctor know about any medications you may be taking. It is particularly important that you mention if any of the following applies to you:

• You use gemfibrozil
• You use rifampicin

As with all other medications, some users may experience side effects when they are using Actos. Some of the most common side effects of Actos include:

• Heart failure (when used alongside insulin)
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid weight increase
• Localised swelling
• Broken bones (particularly in female patients)

To understand the warnings associated with Actos it is important to read the patient information leaflet provided with the medication prior to starting your treatment. 

You can purchase Actos online from UK Meds which will be delivered straight to your door.

The medication is also available to buy in it's generic form pioglitazone.