Side Effects of Pioglitazone and Metformin XR

In clinical studies based on the short-acting form of pioglitazone and metformin, common reactions to pioglitazone and metformin XR could include urinary tract infections, signs of the common cold, and fluid retention. Fortunately, adverse reactions, if any, are usually mild and easily treated. Potentially serious pioglitazone and metformin XR side effects that require medical care include signs of liver damage, allergic reactions, and chest pain.

An Introduction to Side Effects of Pioglitazone and Metformin XR

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with pioglitazone and metformin XR (Actoplus Met® XR). However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible pioglitazone and metformin XR side effects. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
 

Serious Pioglitazone and Metformin XR Side Effects

Some side effects with
 pioglitazone and metformin XR, although occurring infrequently, should be reported to your healthcare provider right away. These include but are not limited to:
 
  • Symptoms of bladder cancer, such as:
    •  
    • Blood in the urine
    • Urgent need to urinate
    • Pain while urinating
    • Pain in the back or lower abdomen (stomach)
  
  • Signs of lactic acidosis (due to the metformin component), such as:
     
    • Feeling tired or weak
    • Muscle pain
    • Trouble breathing
    • Stomach pain
    • Feeling cold
    • Dizziness or lightheadedness
    • Slow or irregular heartbeat (see Metformin and Lactic Acidosis)
 
  • Symptoms of low blood sugar, such as:
     
    • Sweating
    • Shakiness
    • Extreme hunger
    • Dizziness
    • Cold sweats
    • Blurry vision
    • Changes in behavior, such as irritability
    • Loss of coordination
    • Difficulty speaking
    • Confusion
    • Seizures
 
  • Chest pain
  • Trouble breathing (which may be a sign of new or worsening congestive heart failure)
  • Swelling, especially in the legs or ankles
  • Rapid increase in weight (three to five pounds in less than one week)
  • Liver problems, such as:
     
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Stomach pain
    • Unusual or unexplained tiredness
    • Loss of appetite
    • Dark urine
    • Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)
 
  • Vision changes
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
     
    • Unexplained skin rash
    • Itching
    • Hives
    • Wheezing or trouble breathing
    • Unexplained swelling.
 
Side Effects of Pioglitazone and Metformin XR Article Continues on Next Page >
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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