(7.5mg) Pioglitazone

Jun 22, 2023

Introduction

PIOSTERIS 7.5 is an oral anti-diabetic medication that contains Pioglitazone 7.5 mg, a thiazolidinedione (TZD) class drug. It is prescribed to improve blood sugar control in adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). The 7.5 mg strength offers a low-dose option for patients requiring a milder insulin sensitizing effect or those prone to fluid retention or weight gain from higher TZD doses.

Composition

Each tablet of PIOSTERIS 7.5 contains:

Pioglitazone Hydrochloride equivalent to Pioglitazone – 7.5 mg

Mechanism of Action

Pioglitazone works by:

Activating PPAR-γ (Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma)
Improving insulin sensitivity in muscle, liver, and adipose tissue
Reducing hepatic gluconeogenesis
Enhancing peripheral glucose uptake

Importantly, it does not stimulate pancreatic insulin secretion, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia when used alone.

Uses / Indications

PIOSTERIS 7.5 is indicated for:

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus as monotherapy or in combination with:
- Metformin
- Sulfonylureas
- Insulin
Patients with:
- Mild insulin resistance
- History of fluid retention or cardiac disease (lower dose is preferred)

Clinical Benefits

Benefit	Description
Improved Insulin Sensitivity	In key tissues like muscle and fat
Low Risk of Hypoglycemia	When used as monotherapy
Preserves Beta-Cell Function	Reduces stress on pancreas
Mild HbA1c Reduction	Especially at 7.5 mg, suitable for mild/moderate diabetics
Better Tolerability	Lower dose minimizes weight gain and edema risk

Dosage and Administration

Parameter	Details
Recommended Dose	7.5 mg once daily
Administration	With or without food
Titration	Based on glycemic response
Max Dose	Up to 45 mg/day (usually in divided doses if increased)

Side Effects of Pioglitazone 7.5 mg

Though lower doses reduce side effect risks, the following may still occur:

Common:

Mild weight gain
Fluid retention
Headache or sinus congestion
Muscle pain (myalgia)

Rare but Serious:

Heart failure (dose-dependent risk)
Macular edema
Bladder cancer (rare, long-term risk debated)
Hepatic dysfunction (elevated liver enzymes)
Bone fractures (especially in women)

Contraindications

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Heart failure (NYHA Class III/IV)
Active bladder cancer
Severe liver impairment
Known hypersensitivity to pioglitazone

Drug Interactions

Drug/Class	Possible Effect
Insulin or sulfonylureas	Increased risk of fluid retention or hypoglycemia
CYP2C8 inhibitors (e.g., gemfibrozil)	May increase pioglitazone exposure
CYP2C8 inducers (e.g., rifampicin)	May reduce pioglitazone levels
Oral contraceptives	May reduce contraceptive efficacy

Monitoring Requirements

HbA1c every 3 months
Weight and signs of fluid retention
Liver function tests (baseline and periodically)
Symptoms of heart failure
Bladder symptoms if long-term use

Storage Guidelines

Store at room temperature (15–25°C)
Keep dry and away from light
Do not refrigerate or freeze
Keep out of reach of children

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the benefit of Pioglitazone 7.5 mg over higher doses?

It provides better tolerability, especially for older patients or those with heart risks, while still improving insulin sensitivity.

Q2. Is PIOSTERIS 7.5 effective alone?

Yes, it can be used as monotherapy or in combination for better results in T2DM.

Q3. Can Pioglitazone 7.5 mg cause weight gain?

Minimal weight gain may occur, but it's usually less than with higher doses like 30–45 mg.

Q4. Is it safe for long-term use?

Yes, with routine monitoring, PIOSTERIS 7.5 is safe for long-term glycemic management.

Q5. Can it be combined with metformin?

Absolutely. Pioglitazone works synergistically with metformin by addressing different mechanisms in diabetes control.

Conclusion

PIOSTERIS 7.5 (Pioglitazone 7.5 mg) offers a well-tolerated and effective option for managing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, particularly in patients needing a gentle insulin sensitizer. Its low dose minimizes side effects such as weight gain and edema while still providing meaningful glycemic control and metabolic benefits. It is especially ideal for elderly, cardiac-compromised, or treatment-naïve diabetic patients.

About The Author

STERIS HEALTHCARE PVT LTD

Steris Healthcare Pvt Ltd, known as Sterispharma, was founded in February 2018 by a team of experienced professionals in the pharmaceutical industry. Headquartered in Navi Mumbai, the company holds certifications from WHO, GMP, and ISO, reflecting its dedication to maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Sterispharma’s mission is to provide affordable, high-quality medications across India, strictly adhering to WHO guidelines. With the convenience of an online pharmacy, customers can easily order medicines with home delivery options.

For further information

Email: info@sterispharma.com / contact@sterispharma.com

Call/WhatsApp: 8209542042 , 8824175417

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