Going off Actos

So I've done a bit of research on Actos, the drug my doctor prescribed for my diabetes, and I've concluded several things:

• I'm not sure I want to be on this drug under any circumstances, as it apparently is similar to Avandia, a drug that is implicated in causing heart failure.
• Furthermore, it apparently can cause weight gain, and it is possible that this weight gain (i.e. conversion of blood glucose to fat) is part of the mechanism by which it accomplishes its very modest reduction in A1c levels.
• It can also cause fluid retention.

I've only been taking this for about a week and a half, so it seems to me very possible–even likely–that Actos may be interfering with the efficacy of my low-carb diet. I haven't been able to find anything online about this, but it seems reasonable that a drug that alters insulin metabolism and causes fluid retention could interfere with ketosis and the fluid weight-loss associated with the induction period of Atkins.

Bottom line: I was planning to stop taking this anyway if my low carb diet was successful, and it so far has not had any appreciable benefits. I'm going to try my low-carb experiment without it, and then if my blood sugars a month from now are still high I'll reconsider.

[UPDATE] Found the following from the Atkins Center FAQ: 

 5. What medications interfere with or need adjustment during the diet?

ANSWER: Virtually all medications interfere. The most incompatible medications are:

1. Diuretics (water pills)
2. Psychotropic drugs, including prozac, zoloft, lithium, etc.
3. Hormones and steroids, including estrogen (premarin), birth control pills and prednisone.
4. Arthritic drugs, especially NSAIDS (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
5. Cholesterol lowering drugs.



6. All anti-diabetic medications, including insulin with the exception of glucophage.
7. Tranquilizers
8. Seizure medications.

Fortunately, doctors who work with the diet can usually use it and certain supplements to help you get off each and every one of the above or taper you to minimal doses. Please DO NOT COME OFF MEDICATIONS BY YOURSELF without medical supervision. 

Looks to me like I'm right to suspect Actos.  Also apparently I should look at taking some L-Carnitine.  Going to the store now to get it.