Pioglitazone, anti-diabetes drug gets USFDA approval for being marketed

Zydus Cadila has got the USFDA approval for marketing Pioglitazone, an anti-diabetes drug used in Type 2 diabetes.

Pioglitazone Hydrochloride, acts as an insulin sensitizer and causes the insulin receptors on cells to become more sensitive to insulin thus helping uptake of glucose and reducing their levels in the blood.It also prevents the liver from producing excess glucose. Some studies also show that it helps maintain cholesterol levels in the safe zone. It is usually prescribed once a day at strengths of 15, 30 and 45 mg.

The drug has certain side effects like muscle aches, headache, respiratory infections etc. If it is combined with insulin in cases of severe diabetes, it can lead to edema or swelling of the body. Hence, if the diabetic is also suffering from heart disease, it has potential for worsening the heart disease.

Studies have shown that Pioglitazone can cause liver-related side effects like nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dark coloured urine, pain in the abdomen etc. Regular monitoring of the liver tests are highly recommended for patients on the drug. In older premenopausal women, it may induce ovulation leading to fear of pregnancy.

Ranbaxy launched a generic version of the same in the US last year in agreement with Takeda pharmaceuticals Inc.