What is the brand name for Pioglitazone?
The brand name for Pioglitazone is Actos.
PTCE Top 200 · #133
Pioglitazone
Actos
Pioglitazone is the generic name for the brand-name drug Actos. It is a thiazolidinedione (tzd) used to treat type 2 diabetes. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Pioglitazone ranks #133 and is one of the most frequently tested endocrine/diabetes medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Pioglitazone |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Actos |
| Drug class | Thiazolidinedione (TZD) |
| Class group | Endocrine/Diabetes |
| Common use | type 2 diabetes |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Pioglitazone used for?
Adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
What drug class is Pioglitazone?
Pioglitazone is a Thiazolidinedione (TZD) in the Endocrine/Diabetes group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Pioglitazone
- arrow_rightEdema
- arrow_rightWeight gain
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightUpper respiratory infection
- arrow_rightBack pain
- arrow_rightFracture risk
Major interactions
- arrow_rightInsulin → increased edema/heart failure risk
- arrow_rightGemfibrozil (CYP2C8 inhibitor) → ↑ pioglitazone exposure
- arrow_rightRifampin (CYP2C8 inducer) → ↓ pioglitazone exposure
- arrow_rightMay reduce efficacy of some oral contraceptives (monitor)
Is Pioglitazone a controlled substance?
No. Pioglitazone is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
WARNING: CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE. Thiazolidinediones, including pioglitazone, can cause or exacerbate heart failure; monitor and discontinue or reduce dose if HF develops.
How to remember Pioglitazone (PTCE mnemonic)
ACTOS ACTivates PPAR-γ — pio-GLITAZONE is TZD. 'PIO = PUFFY' (edema, weight gain) → HF boxed warning; bladder cancer risk; bone fractures in women.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
The TZD boxed warning IS the question: pioglitazone causes fluid retention and can worsen heart failure — avoided in significant HF.
Pioglitazone FAQ
What is Pioglitazone used for?
Pioglitazone is used to treat type 2 diabetes. Adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
What drug class is Pioglitazone?
Pioglitazone is a Thiazolidinedione (TZD) (Endocrine/Diabetes group).
Is Pioglitazone a controlled substance?
No. Pioglitazone is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Endocrine/Diabetes group
Drill Pioglitazone the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).