Gepride M 1 Forte Tablet (10 Tab)

GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET (10 TAB) by MEDLEY PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET, often available as GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET SR (Sustained Release), is an oral antidiabetic medication manufactured by Medley Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Composition

Each tablet contains a combination of two active ingredients:

• Glimepiride: 1 mg
• Metformin: 1000 mg

Uses

GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET is primarily used for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. It is prescribed when diet and exercise alone are insufficient to achieve adequate glycemic control. The medicine works by:

• Increasing the production and release of insulin from the pancreas (Glimepiride).
• Reducing glucose production in the liver.
• Delaying glucose absorption from the intestines.
• Improving the body's sensitivity to insulin. This dual action helps to effectively lower and control blood sugar levels, thereby reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications such as kidney damage, eye problems, nerve issues, and limb loss.

Dosage and Administration

This medication should be taken once daily with food, preferably at the same time each day. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not chewed, crushed, or broken. The specific dosage is determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient's blood sugar levels and response to treatment. It is crucial to continue taking the medicine as prescribed, even if blood sugar levels appear controlled.

Side Effects

While taking GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET, some individuals may experience side effects.

• Common Side Effects: Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), headache, nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, vomiting, metallic taste, dizziness, taste disturbance, weight gain, and upper respiratory tract infections.
• Serious Side Effects: Lactic acidosis (a rare but serious condition), inflammation of the liver (which may lead to jaundice), severe allergic reactions, and a potential for vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use. Prompt medical attention is advised if serious symptoms occur.

Precautions

• Contraindications: Not recommended for individuals with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe kidney or liver disease, acute heart problems, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption, as it can increase the risk of hypoglycemia and lactic acidosis.
• Hypoglycemia: Patients should be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar (sweating, dizziness, headache, shaking) and carry a fast-acting glucose source (e.g., sugary food or fruit juice).
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, and potentially liver and kidney function, is recommended.
• Driving: May affect alertness due to potential blood sugar fluctuations, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.
• Do not stop the medication abruptly without consulting a doctor.

Storage

Store GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET at temperatures between 10°C and 25°C or below 30°C. Keep the tablets in their original container, protected from moisture and light, and away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Ensure the medicine is kept out of reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date.

What is GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET used for?

GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It helps to control blood sugar levels when diet and exercise alone are not sufficient, or when blood sugar is not adequately controlled by a single diabetes medication. This medication helps manage blood glucose levels and can help prevent diabetes-related complications such as kidney damage, eye problems, and nerve issues.

How does GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET work?

GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET is a combination of two antidiabetic drugs: Glimepiride and Metformin. Glimepiride works by stimulating the beta cells in the pancreas to produce and release more insulin, which helps move sugar from the blood into the cells. Metformin, on the other hand, reduces the amount of sugar produced by the liver, slows down sugar absorption from the intestines, and increases the body's sensitivity to insulin, allowing cells to use blood sugar more effectively.

How should I take GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET?

You should take GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET exactly as directed by your doctor. It is typically taken once daily with food, at the same time each day, swallowed whole with a glass of water without cutting, chewing, or breaking it. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage, which may be adjusted based on your blood sugar levels and response to treatment. It is crucial to continue taking the medicine even if you feel well.

What are the common side effects of GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET?

Common side effects may include hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or a metallic taste in the mouth. Some individuals might also experience weight gain. Most of these side effects are temporary and usually resolve over time.

What serious side effects should I be aware of?

A serious but rare side effect is lactic acidosis, which is a build-up of lactic acid in the blood. Symptoms can include deep or rapid breathing, persistent nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Long-term use can also lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency. If you experience these severe symptoms or other concerning side effects, seek immediate medical attention.

Is GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET is generally not recommended or contraindicated during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. It is also not recommended for breastfeeding mothers as the medicine may pass into breast milk and cause adverse effects in the baby. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET be taken with other medications?

GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET can interact with several other medications. Inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking or plan to take. Interactions may occur with other antidiabetic medicines (like insulin or thiazolidinediones), certain antibiotics (e.g., rifampicin), calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil), steroids, and beta-blockers, among others.

What precautions should I take while using GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET?

It is important to avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication, as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and lactic acidosis. You should regularly monitor your blood sugar levels and be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia (e.g., sweating, dizziness, headache, shaking). Exercise caution if you have kidney or liver problems, heart disease, or if you are recovering from injury, surgery, or severe infections. This medicine is not for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

What happens if I miss a dose of GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET?

If you miss a dose, take it 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 compensate for a missed one.

How should GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET be stored?

GEPRIDE M 1 FORTE TABLET should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. It should be kept in its original container, protected from moisture, and out of reach and sight of children. Store it typically between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.