What are the alternate names for Actos (Pioglitazone) and Farsigia?

Alternate Names for Actos (Pioglitazone) and Farsigia

Actos is the brand name for pioglitazone hydrochloride, while there is no medication called "Farsigia" in the medical literature. 1, 2

Pioglitazone (Actos) Details

• Pioglitazone is the generic name for the medication marketed under the brand name Actos by Takeda Pharmaceuticals 1, 3
• Pioglitazone belongs to the thiazolidinedione (TZD) class of oral antidiabetic medications 2, 4
• It is also known as a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ) activator 2
• The full chemical name is pioglitazone hydrochloride 3

Mechanism and Use

• Pioglitazone improves insulin sensitivity in muscle and adipose tissue by activating the nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma) 2, 4
• It is indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, either as monotherapy or in combination with sulfonylureas, metformin, or insulin 1
• The medication is typically dosed at 15-45 mg once daily 4

Important Considerations

• Pioglitazone has been associated with fluid retention and edema, which may exacerbate or lead to heart failure in predisposed individuals 1
• The FDA has issued a Black Box Warning stating that thiazolidinediones, including pioglitazone, may cause or exacerbate heart failure 1
• It should not be used in patients with NYHA class III or IV heart failure 1
• Lower doses (15-30 mg) may help mitigate concerns about weight gain and edema 1

Regarding "Farsigia"

• There is no medication with the name "Farsigia" mentioned in any of the provided medical literature or guidelines 1, 2
• This may be a misspelling or confusion with another medication name
• No alternative spelling variations of this name appear in the provided evidence