Pioglitazone belongs to a class of medication called thiazolidinediones. It works by enhancing the action of insulin and improving the utilization of insulin by your body. Therefore, it is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Pioglitazone is taken orally as tablets. The usual initial dose is 15-30 mg once daily, and may be increased in 15 mg increments up to a maximum of 45 mg once daily.
Note: for patients with heart failure (NYHA Class I or II), the initial dose should be limited to 15 mg once daily, with a maintenance dose of ≤30 mg/day.
The common side effects of Pioglitazone include upper respiratory tract infection, headache, sinusitis, myalgia, pharyngitis, oedema, or weight gain.
Common dosing schedule:
Pioglitazone can be taken with or without meals.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Pioglitazone may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Pioglitazone is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Pioglitazone in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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