Evidence Health
← Back to the full page

Pioglitazone Hcl And Metformin Hcl

Also sold as Pioglitazone HCL and Metformin HCL

Medicine summary · from official FDA labels · Oct 19, 2026

Serious warning: WARNING: CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE and LACTIC ACIDOSIS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Congestive Heart Failure • Thiazolidinediones, including pioglitazone, which is a component of pioglitazone and metformin hydrochloride tablets, cause or exacerbate congestive heart failure in some patients.
2 recalls on record — a recall affects specific batches; check with your pharmacist.

What it’s used for

Pioglitazone and metformin hydrochloride tablets, are a combination of pioglitazone, a thiazolidinedione agonist of peroxisome proliferator receptor gamma, and metformin hydrochloride (HCl), a biguanide, indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. ( 1 ) Limitations of Use: Not recommended for treatment of type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

How to take it

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Obtain liver tests before initiation. If abnormal, use caution when treating with pioglitazone and metformin hydrochloride tablets, investigate the probable cause, treat (if possible), and follow appropriately.

Important warnings

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Congestive Heart Failure: Fluid retention may occur and can exacerbate or lead to congestive heart failure. Combination use with insulin and use in congestive heart failure NYHA Class I and II may increase risk.

Common side effects

Most common adverse reactions (>5%) are upper respiratory tract infection, edema, diarrhea, headache and weight gain. ( 6.

Interactions

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS • Strong CYP2C8 inhibitors (e.

If pregnant or breastfeeding

8.

Forms & strengths

30 MG Oral Tablet · 45 MG Oral Tablet · 15 MG Oral Tablet

Questions to ask your doctor or pharmacist

  • Is this the right medicine for my condition, and how long should I take it?
  • What side effects should I watch for, and which need urgent attention?
  • Does this interact with my other medicines, supplements, or alcohol?
  • What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much?