Actos Medication Side Effects

Actos is a prescription medication used to treat Type 2 diabetes. Despite its effectiveness, Actos poses risks for side effects in some patients.

Significance

• According to clinical studies published by the Food and Drug Administration on RxList.com, approximately 3 percent of patients who take Actos discontinue use due to its side effects.

Types of Common Side Effects

• Common side effects of Actos include upper respiratory tract or sinus infections, headaches, muscle pain, tooth decay and pharyngitis.

Features: Hypoglycemia

• Because Actos lowers your blood sugar levels, it is common to experience at least occasional episodes of hypoglycemia while taking the drug. Symptoms include hunger, shaking, nervousness, dizziness, sleepiness and confusion.

Risks

• Serious cardiovascular side effects are possible while taking Actos, such as heart attack, stroke and congestive heart failure.

Considerations

• If you become pregnant while taking Actors, your doctor is likely to replace the drug with insulin in order to avoid possible complications to your baby. If you have a history of cardiovascular or liver disease, you are at an increased risk for side effects from Actos.