Stalix M 50 Mg/ 500 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

STALIX M 50 MG/ 500 MG TABLET

STALIX M 50 MG/ 500 MG TABLET is a combination medicine manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

• Name: STALIX M 50 MG/ 500 MG TABLET (Brand Name)
• Composition: Each tablet contains Sitagliptin 50 mg and Metformin Hydrochloride 500 mg.
• Uses: This medication is primarily prescribed for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It helps control high blood sugar levels when diet and exercise alone are insufficient. By improving blood glucose control, it also aids in preventing serious complications associated with diabetes, such as kidney damage, nerve problems, blindness, limb amputations, and cardiovascular events like heart attack or stroke.
• Dosage and Administration: The recommended dosage varies based on individual patient factors, including diabetes severity and kidney function. Typically, STALIX M is administered orally once or twice daily, preferably with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water and not crushed, chewed, or broken. Consistent adherence to the prescribed dosage and timing is crucial for optimal blood sugar control.
• Side Effects:
  • Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, metallic taste, headache, dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection, and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially when taken with other antidiabetic medicines.
  • Serious (Rare): Lactic acidosis (a build-up of lactic acid in the blood), which may present with symptoms like muscle pain, difficulty breathing, or severe weakness. Long-term use can also lead to vitamin B12 deficiency.
• Precautions: Avoid taking if allergic to sitagliptin, metformin, or other ingredients. Caution is advised in patients with severe kidney impairment, liver impairment, chronic heart failure, or a history of pancreatitis. Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before use. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and kidney function is essential during treatment.
• Storage: Store at room temperature, ideally between 20°C and 25°C, and below 30°C. Keep away from moisture, heat, direct sunlight, and out of reach of children.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about STALIX M 50 MG/ 500 MG TABLET, along with their concise answers:

What is Stalix M 50/500 Tablet used for?

Stalix M 50/500 Tablet is primarily used to manage high blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is prescribed alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise to help regulate blood glucose, thereby preventing serious complications associated with diabetes such as kidney damage, nerve problems, blindness, limb amputations, and sexual dysfunction. It can also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attack or stroke.

How does Stalix M 50/500 Tablet work?

Stalix M 50/500 Tablet contains two active ingredients: Sitagliptin (50 mg) and Metformin (500 mg). Sitagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor that works by increasing the levels of natural substances called incretins (GLP-1 and GIP) in the body. These incretins stimulate insulin release from the pancreas, especially after meals, and decrease the amount of sugar produced by the liver. Metformin, a biguanide, reduces glucose production in the liver, improves the body's sensitivity to insulin, and decreases the absorption of glucose from the intestines. Together, these actions provide better control of blood sugar levels.

What is the usual dosage of Stalix M 50/500 Tablet?

The dosage of Stalix M 50/500 Tablet is determined by your doctor, taking into account factors like the severity of your condition, kidney function, and how you respond to treatment. It is typically administered once or twice daily, preferably with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water and not crushed, chewed, or split. Consistency is key, so try to take it at the same time(s) each day for optimal results.

What are the possible side effects of Stalix M 50/500 Tablet?

Common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection (like a common cold), and nasopharyngitis. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can occur, especially if taken with other antidiabetic medicines like insulin or sulfonylureas. Rare but serious side effects can include lactic acidosis (a build-up of lactic acid in the blood) and vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should consult your doctor immediately.

Is Stalix M 50/500 Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Caution is advised when taking Stalix M 50/500 Tablet if you are pregnant, and it is best to consult your doctor before using it. Poorly managed blood sugar during pregnancy can harm the fetus. Stalix M 50/500 Tablet is generally contraindicated or probably unsafe for breastfeeding women, so consulting your doctor is recommended to understand potential risks and benefits.

Can Stalix M 50/500 Tablet be taken with other medications?

Stalix M 50/500 Tablet can interact with various medications. For example, cationic medicines (like cimetidine, ranitidine, vancomycin, amiloride, quinidine), insulin, or insulin secretagogues may increase the risk of side effects like lactic acidosis or hypoglycemia. Corticosteroids and phenytoin may also affect blood sugar control, potentially requiring a dosage adjustment. Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking or plan to take to avoid possible interactions.

What precautions should be taken while taking Stalix M 50/500 Tablet?

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking Stalix M 50/500 Tablet, as it can increase the risk of a serious condition called lactic acidosis. Inform your doctor if you have a history of kidney, liver, or heart disease (especially chronic heart failure), or problems with your pancreas, as these conditions may require caution or mean the medicine is unsuitable. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and kidney function is essential during treatment. If you experience dizziness or sleepiness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

What happens if a dose of Stalix M 50/500 Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of Stalix M 50/500 Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double your dose to make up for the missed one.

How should Stalix M 50/500 Tablet be stored?

Store Stalix M 50/500 Tablet at room temperature, ideally between 20°C and 25°C, or below 30°C. Keep it away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight to maintain its effectiveness. Always ensure the medicine is stored in its original packaging and kept out of the reach of children and pets.