Take Actos exactly as it was prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts, or take it for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from Actos.rnThis medicine is usually taken once daily. You may take Actos with or without food.rnActos is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Your doctor may also recommend other medicines to treat your diabetes.rnIt is important to use this medicine regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.rnTo be sure Actos is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested, and you may need regular eye exams. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.rnYour medication needs may change if you become sick or injured, if you have a serious infection, or if you have any type of surgery. Your doctor may want you to stop taking Actos for a short time if any of these situations affect you.rnTake care not to let your blood sugar get too low, causing hypoglycemia. You may have hypoglycemia if you skip a meal, exercise too long, drink alcohol, or are under stress.rnKnow the signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and how to recognize them:rnhunger, headache, confusion, irritability;rndrowsiness, weakness, dizziness, tremors;rnsweating, fast heartbeat;rnseizure (convulsions); orrnfainting, coma (severe hypoglycemia can be fatal).rnAlways keep a source of sugar available in case you have symptoms of low blood sugar. Sugar sources include orange juice, glucose gel, candy, or milk. If you have severe hypoglycemia and cannot eat or drink, use an injection of glucagon. Your doctor can give you a prescription for a glucagon emergency injection kit and tell you how to give the injection.rnStore Actos at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
