Alogliptin-Pioglitazone
Pronounced
"AL-oh-GLIP-tin/PYE-oh-GLI-ta-zone"
Uses
This combination medication is used with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
This product contains 2 medications: alogliptin and pioglitazone. Alogliptin works by increasing levels of natural substances called incretins. Incretins help to control blood sugar by increasing insulin release, especially after a meal. They also decrease the amount of sugar your liver makes. Pioglitazone works by helping to restore your body's proper response to insulin.
Warning
This combination medication may rarely cause or worsen a certain heart problem (heart failure). Tell your doctor right away if you notice any symptoms of heart failure, including: shortness of breath, swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, unusual/sudden weight gain.
This medication is not recommended for people with certain types of heart failure. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have heart failure.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using alogliptin/pioglitazone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily with or without food. The manufacturer directs not to split, break, or cut the tablet before taking it. However, many similar drugs (immediate-release tablets) can be split, broken, or cut. Follow your doctor's directions on how to take this medication.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Carefully follow your diabetes management plan, including medications, diet, and exercise.
Check your blood sugar regularly as directed by your doctor. Keep track of the results, and share them with your doctor. Tell your doctor if your blood sugar measurements are often too high or too low. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.