| Brand Name: |
Vexazone |
| Generic Name: |
Pioglitazone Hydrochloride |
| Form: |
Tablets |
| Manufacturer: |
Mylan |
What is Vexazone?
Vexazone (Pioglitazone Hydrochloride) 15mg is a diabetes medication. It is used to treat type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus or adult-onset diabetes) in adults. Each packet contains 90 x 15mg tablets. Pioglitazone works by increasing sensitivity to insulin and by preventing the creation of new glucose in the liver.
How is Vexazone used?
Vexazone is available in three dosages, with 15mg being the lowest. Other available dosages are 30mg and 45mg.
Your docotr will perfrom routine blood tests to determine the severity of your diabetes and prescribe a suitable dosage according to this. The dosage will be prescribed on a daily basis. Try to take the tablet at the same time each day. Vexazone works best when you follow a diet and exercise program.
Adverse effects
These side effects are common. Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following and they are bothering you.
- hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) - usually when Vexazone is taken with a sulfonylurea or insulin
- shortness of breath when resting or after minimal physical activity
- swelling of the legs, feet and hands
- increased weight
- localised swelling of the ankles, feet and hands (oedema) and/or fluid in the lungs (pulmonary oedema) which may indicate heart failure - usually when taking Vexazone with insulin
- increased risk of fracture in women
- macular oedema
- altered or impaired liver function.
More serious side effects may require medical intervention. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice:
- dark urine or pale stools
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- severe cramps of the stomach
- nausea or vomiting
- loss of weight
- tiredness
- blood in the urine
- pain and burning sensation when urinating
Some of these side effects may need you to stop taking Vexazone (Pioglitazone Hydrochloride).
Warnings
Prior to beggining treatment with Vexazone 15mg, tell your doctor of:
- any medical conditions you have
- any medicines you are taking (including prescription, non-prescription, herbal remedies or nutritional supplements)
- if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
If you are taking any of the following, check with your doctor if you should be taking Vexazone at the same time:
- chlorpropamide
- glibenclamide
- gliclazide
- insulin
- metformin
- oral contraceptives
- gemfibrozil
- rifampicin
- tolbutamide
Blood glucose levels will be decreased as a result of taking Vexazone. This can lead to feelings of tiredness and drowsiness. You may not be able to drive or operate machinery. |
