Gluconorm Z 80 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET (15 TAB) by LUPIN LTD.

Name

• Brand Name: GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET
• Common Names: Gliclazide and Metformin

Composition GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET is a combination medicine containing two active ingredients:

• Gliclazide: 80 mg (a sulfonylurea that stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin)
• Metformin Hydrochloride: 500 mg (a biguanide that reduces glucose production in the liver, delays glucose absorption from the intestines, and increases the body's sensitivity to insulin)

Uses This medication is prescribed for the management of Type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It is used when diet, exercise, and weight loss alone are insufficient to control blood glucose levels, or when individual therapy with either Gliclazide or Metformin is not providing adequate control. It helps lower high blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.

Dosage and Administration GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET is for oral administration. It is typically taken once or twice daily with meals to minimize stomach upset and aid absorption. The exact dosage and duration will be determined by a doctor based on the individual's blood sugar levels and response to treatment. It is crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage and not to stop the medicine without consulting a doctor.

Side Effects Common side effects may include:

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels), characterized by sweating, dizziness, headache, and shaking
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or constipation
• Headache, dizziness, and altered taste

Serious but rare side effects can include lactic acidosis, which requires immediate medical attention, and vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use.

Precautions

• Contraindications: Not recommended for Type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe kidney or liver disease, heart failure, or in patients with known allergies to its components.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Contraindicated during pregnancy and generally not recommended while breastfeeding.
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it increases the risk of hypoglycemia and lactic acidosis.
• Diet: Do not skip meals, as this can lead to hypoglycemia. Maintain a consistent carbohydrate intake.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, as drug-drug interactions (e.g., with diuretics, corticosteroids, ACE inhibitors) and food interactions (e.g., high-fiber diet affecting Metformin absorption) can occur.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential.

Storage Store the medicine below 30°C (or 25°C). Keep it in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and light, and out of sight and reach of children.

Here are frequently asked questions about GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET (15 TAB) by LUPIN LTD., along with concise answers:

What is GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET used for?

GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET is primarily used to manage Type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It helps to control high blood sugar levels when diet, exercise, and weight loss alone are not sufficient, and works to prevent long-term complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes, such as kidney damage, nerve problems, blindness, and circulation issues.

How does GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET work?

This medicine is a combination of two active ingredients: Gliclazide (80mg) and Metformin (500mg). Gliclazide belongs to the sulfonylurea class and works by stimulating the beta cells in the pancreas to release more insulin. Metformin, a biguanide, works by decreasing the production of glucose in the liver, reducing glucose absorption from the intestines, and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin, thereby allowing better glucose uptake and utilization. Together, they help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

What is the usual dosage for GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET?

The dosage of GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET should be determined by your doctor based on your individual medical condition, blood sugar levels, and response to treatment. The tablet contains 80 mg of Gliclazide. For Gliclazide, initial doses may start from 40-80 mg daily and can be increased up to a maximum of 320 mg daily. Doses exceeding 160 mg daily are typically given in two divided doses. It is recommended to take the tablet with food.

What are the possible side effects of GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET?

Common side effects can include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, indigestion, and constipation. Other possible side effects may include skin reactions like rash, itching, or redness, headache, and transient visual disturbances.

Is GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is crucial to discuss this with your doctor, as they may suggest alternative treatments like insulin, which are considered safer during these periods.

Can GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET can interact with various medications. Some drugs can increase its blood glucose-lowering effect, potentially leading to hypoglycemia (e.g., miconazole, alcohol, certain antibiotics like fluoroquinolones and clarithromycin, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, NSAIDs, and other antidiabetic agents). Conversely, some medications can decrease its effectiveness, leading to high blood sugar (e.g., danazol, chlorpromazine, glucocorticoids, estrogens, progestogens). It is important to inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while on GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET?

It is important to follow a regular diet and not skip meals, especially breakfast, as this can increase the risk of low blood sugar. Alcohol consumption is not recommended as it can increase the hypoglycemic effect and mask its symptoms. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels, as advised by your doctor, is essential. Exercise caution if you have liver or kidney problems, as dose adjustments may be necessary. Also, this medication may make you more sensitive to the sun; wear protective clothing and use sunscreen when outdoors.

What happens if a dose of GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET is missed?

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

How should GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET be stored?

Store GLUCONORM Z 80 MG TABLET at room temperature, typically between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F), away from heat, light, and moisture. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.