Function

• Actos makes cells more sensitive to insulin.
  
  Actos functions by making cells in the body more sensitive to insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. By making the cells more sensitive to insulin, the sugar that is in the blood can move more easily into the cells of the body.
  
  

Benefit

• Actos is most effective in conjunction with a healthy diet.
  
  The primary benefit of Actos is that, in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise, it effectively lowers blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes by helping the body to use its own insulin.
  
  

Common Side Effects

• Possible side effects of Actos range from headaches to seizures.
  
  Although Actos helps many people with type 2 diabetes, everyone's body is different and side effects are possible. The most common side effects of Actos are upper respiratory infections, headaches, muscle pains, tooth problems, sore throats and water weight gain.
  
  

Less Common Side Effects

• Severe side effects of Actos can be life threatening.
  
  Actos does have some less common but more severe side effects. These side effects can be life threatening. The most dangerous side effects of Actos include seizures, congestive heart failure and liver problems.
  
  

Considerations

• Do not skip doses of Actos.
  
  When you take Actos for an extended period of time, you may begin to feel better physically and will possibly consider skipping a day or two of taking your medicine. This is not advisable. Be sure to take your medicine every day and do not skip doses, even if you are feeling well.