Actos Description

Actos is an oral antidiabetic agent that acts primarily by decreasing insulin resistance.
It is used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (also known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus [NIDDM] or adult-onset diabetes). Pharmacological studies indicate that Actos improves sensitivity to insulin in muscle and adipose tissue and inhibits hepatic gluconeogenesis. Actos improves glycemic control while reducing circulating insulin levels.
Pioglitazone [(±)-5-[[4-[2-(5-ethyl-2-pyridinyl)ethoxy]phenyl]methyl]-2,4-thiazolidinedione] monohydrochloride belongs to a different chemical class and has a different pharmacological action than the sulfonylureas, metformin, or the α-glucosidase inhibitors. The molecule contains one asymmetric carbon, and the compound is synthesized and used as the racemic mixture. The two enantiomers of pioglitazone interconvert in vivo. No differences were found in the pharmacologic activity between the two enantiomers.
Pioglitazone hydrochloride is an odorless white crystalline powder that has a molecular formula of C₁₉H₂₀N₂O₃S•HCl and a molecular weight of 392.9 daltons. It is soluble in N,N-dimethylformamide, slightly soluble in anhydrous ethanol, very slightly soluble in acetone and acetonitrile, practically insoluble in water and insoluble in ether.
Excipients/Inactive Ingredients: Carmellose calcium, hydroxypropylcellulose, magnesium stearate, lactose monohydrate.