About pioglitazone + metformin hcl
Thiazolidinedione and biguanide combination
Used for
- Type 2 diabetes, alongside diet and exercise, when both medicines are appropriate.
Usual adult dose
Usually one tablet twice daily with meals; dose depends on prior treatment and kidney function.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, or stomach discomfort
- Swelling and weight gain
- Headache or muscle aches
- Low blood sugar, especially with other diabetes medicines
Important warnings
- Can cause or worsen heart failure; avoid in severe heart failure.
- Metformin may rarely cause lactic acidosis, especially with kidney problems or severe illness.
- Pioglitazone may increase fracture risk and has been linked to bladder cancer concerns.
- Not for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Pregnancy
Not usually preferred during pregnancy; treatment needs clinician review because diabetes control is important.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding safety is uncertain; metformin enters milk, and pioglitazone data are limited.
Interactions
- Insulin or sulfonylureas increase low-blood-sugar risk.
- Gemfibrozil can increase pioglitazone exposure; rifampin can reduce it.
- Iodinated contrast procedures may require temporary metformin interruption.
- Alcohol increases the risk of metformin-associated lactic acidosis.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.