Pioglitazone (Actos): Uses, Side Effects, and Warnings

ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It can take several weeks to see the full effect.

What it's used for

Type 2 diabetes

How to take it

Take it once a day, with or without food.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

Weight gain
Swelling in the ankles
Cold-like symptoms
Muscle aches

Call 911Shortness of breath, especially lying down, or fast weight gain with swelling (heart failure)

Call your provider todayBlood in urine or pain when peeing

Call your provider todayYellow skin or eyes or dark urine

Call your provider todayBlurry vision

Warnings

Boxed warning: it can cause or worsen heart failure.
It may raise the risk of bladder cancer and bone fractures.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

Insulin and sulfonylureas raise low blood sugar risk and fluid retention.
Gemfibrozil raises its level.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Usually switched to insulin in pregnancy.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Diabetes (high blood sugar)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.