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Pioglitazone rescue therapy
Pioglitazone activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Pioglitazone activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes. Used for Type 2 diabetes mellitus (rescue/add-on therapy).
At a glance
| Generic name | Pioglitazone rescue therapy |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Actos |
| Sponsor | Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC |
| Drug class | Thiazolidinedione (PPAR-γ agonist) |
| Target | PPAR-γ (Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Diabetes |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
As a thiazolidinedione, pioglitazone binds to PPAR-γ in adipose tissue and muscle, enhancing insulin-mediated glucose uptake and reducing hepatic glucose production. This mechanism addresses insulin resistance, a core pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes. In rescue therapy contexts, it is used as an add-on agent when other antidiabetic drugs have proven insufficient.
Approved indications
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus (rescue/add-on therapy)
Common side effects
- Weight gain
- Fluid retention / edema
- Hypoglycemia (when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas)
- Headache
- Upper respiratory tract infection
Key clinical trials
- Randomized, Double-blind, Active-controlled, Study of Rivoglitazone in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (PHASE3)
- A Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of Sitagliptin 100 mg in Participants With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Who Have Inadequate Glycemic Control (MK-0431-229) (PHASE3)
- Sitagliptin (MK-0431) vs. Placebo in Patients With Inadequate Glycemic Control on Metformin With Pioglitazone (MK-0431-128) (PHASE3)
- MK0431 and Pioglitazone Co-Administration Factorial Study in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (0431-102 AM2) (PHASE3)
- A Study of Different Doses of Sitagliptin (MK-0431) in Participants With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (MK-0431-014) (PHASE2)
- Pioglitazone Add-on Study in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (PHASE3)
- A Phase 3 Study of BMS-477118 in Combination With Metformin in Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes Who Are Not Controlled With Diet and Exercise (PHASE3)
- Study Assessing Saxagliptin Treatment In Type 2 Diabetic Subjects Who Are Not Controlled With Metformin Alone (PHASE3)
Primary sources
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| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |