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The Question
03/15/10 10:53 PM

"I have been told that I have Type 2 Diabetes. I am taking Actoplus met. What exactly does this drug do? I have been taking this for 8 weeks."
Asked By: 46gloria  
Category: Type 2

Background Info Hide
I have been diagnosed as of August. At first I was in denial. Now It has finally hit home. I have been taking this Actoplus met for 8 weeks. Is this a form of insulin? I take mine in the AM because breakfast is usually our biggest meal. Please shed some light on my problem. Thank you!

Expert Answers (1)

03/21/10 12:03 PM

Dear Gloria- Thank-you for contacting dLife.com. You have made huge step towards self management, seeking knowledge.

Actosplus met is a combination medication. The two components are :

  • Metformin which is a medication to suppress excessive glucose production from the liver. This is one of the main 3 things that contribute to elevated glucose levels in the diabetic. The effectiveness of this part of the medication should be seen in the first morning glucose level with a target range of 90-130mg/dl
  • Actos the second part of the medication is in another family of medications, TZDs. The role of this medication is to reduce insulin resistance. In other words when the insulin you produce tries to bring the glucose from the carbohydrates you eat to your muscle cells the cells are resistant or doesn't recognize the insulin. Actos makes the cells more receptive and the insulin that your body makes can deliver the glucose to your cells for energy. This combination medication should begin to reduce your overall hemoglobin A1c in your next 3 month blood draw.

    This medication is not insulin. There is not an oral form of insulin to date.

    Continue your interest in knowing all you can about your diabetes for the best self management. Keep asking questions. and Stay well.

    • Answered By: Janet HowardDucsay
    Accreditations: RN BSN CDE
    Sources Show

    Community Answers (0)

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