Tribetrol 1

Name

• Brand Name: TRIBETROL 1 (manufactured by Abbott India Ltd.)
• Common Name: Glimepiride, Metformin, Voglibose combination tablet.

Composition TRIBETROL 1 Tablet SR is a combination of three anti-diabetic drugs:

• Glimepiride: 1 mg
• Metformin Hydrochloride (as sustained release form): 500 mg
• Voglibose: 0.2 mg

Uses TRIBETROL 1 is used for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. It is prescribed when diet, exercise, and single or dual anti-diabetic medications are insufficient to adequately control blood sugar levels. This medication helps control high blood glucose levels by:

• Increasing the release of insulin from the pancreas (Glimepiride).
• Lowering glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity (Metformin).
• Delaying the breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines, thereby reducing the rise in blood glucose levels after meals (Voglibose). It also helps to reduce the risk of serious diabetes complications like kidney damage, eye damage, nerve problems, and loss of limbs.

Dosage and Administration

• Take TRIBETROL 1 as advised by your doctor regarding dosage and duration.
• It should be taken with or immediately before meals, preferably at the same time each day.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not chew, crush, or break it.
• Do not exceed the prescribed dose or stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to increased blood sugar levels and potential complications.

Side Effects Common side effects of TRIBETROL 1 may include:

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level), characterized by sweating, dizziness, headache, and shaking.
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, stomach ache.
• Altered taste or metallic taste.
• Flatulence and bloating.
• Headache.
• Weight gain.
• Upper respiratory tract infection. Less common or serious side effects can include liver dysfunction or, rarely, lactic acidosis.

Precautions

• Hypoglycemia: Be aware of the signs of low blood sugar and carry a fast-acting source of glucose (e.g., sugary food or fruit juice).
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar and lactic acidosis.
• Allergies: Do not take if you have known allergy to any of the components or excipients of this medicine, or to other sulfonylureas or sulphonamides.
• Contraindications: Not recommended for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe kidney disease, or severe liver disease. Patients with moderate to severe kidney disease should avoid it due to increased risk of lactic acidosis.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Not recommended during pregnancy as it may harm the fetus, and is probably unsafe during breastfeeding as it may pass through breast milk. Consult your doctor for alternative options.
• Heart Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disease, as this medicine may not be suitable.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential. Your doctor may also advise blood tests to monitor blood cell counts and liver function.
• Other conditions: Caution is advised in patients with intestinal diseases, thyroid disorders, or G6PD deficiency. Avoid during fasting periods.
• Driving: Your ability to drive may be affected if your blood sugar is too low or too high.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.
• Maintain an ideal storage environment at room temperature (below 25°C or 10°C to 25°C, or below 30°C), protected from moisture and light.

TRIBETROL 1 by Abbott is a medication primarily used for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is a combination of three active ingredients: Glimepiride, Metformin, and Voglibose, which work together to help control blood sugar levels.

Here are some frequently asked questions about TRIBETROL 1:

What is TRIBETROL 1 used for?

TRIBETROL 1 is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults to control high blood sugar levels. It is typically prescribed when diet, exercise, and single anti-diabetic medicines are not sufficient to manage blood sugar effectively.

How does TRIBETROL 1 work?

TRIBETROL 1 contains a combination of three active ingredients:

• Glimepiride: This sulfonylurea stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin.
• Metformin: This biguanide reduces the amount of glucose produced by the liver, decreases the absorption of glucose from the intestines, and improves the body's sensitivity to insulin.
• Voglibose: This alpha-glucosidase inhibitor slows down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines, which helps to prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar after meals.

What is the usual dosage for TRIBETROL 1?

The daily dose of TRIBETROL 1 should be taken exactly as advised by your doctor. The dosage depends on your medical condition and how your body responds to the treatment. It's important to swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, usually with or immediately before meals, and not to crush, chew, or cut it. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of TRIBETROL 1?

Common side effects of TRIBETROL 1 can include low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, headache, flatulence, and altered taste. Some individuals might also experience weight gain. Most side effects are temporary and generally resolve with continued use or upon discontinuation of the medicine. If you experience serious side effects or worsening symptoms, consult your doctor.

Is TRIBETROL 1 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

TRIBETROL 1 is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy and may be unsafe. Your doctor may advise switching to insulin during pregnancy. It is also likely unsafe to use during breastfeeding, as limited human data suggests the drug may pass into breast milk and could potentially harm the baby. It is crucial to consult your doctor for alternative options if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Can TRIBETROL 1 be taken with other medications?

TRIBETROL 1 can interact with various other medicines, potentially altering their effects or increasing the risk of side effects like hypoglycemia or lactic acidosis. These interactions can occur with NSAIDs, cardiac glycosides, thyroid medications, certain antibiotics, diuretics, corticosteroids, and blood thinners. It is essential to inform your doctor about all prescription, non-prescription, herbal medicines, and dietary supplements you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions.

What precautions should be taken while taking TRIBETROL 1?

• Hypoglycemia: Be aware of the signs of low blood sugar (e.g., sweating, dizziness, headache, shaking) and carry a fast-acting source of glucose with you.
• Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia.
• Kidney/Liver Disease: TRIBETROL 1 is not recommended for patients with severe kidney disease or liver impairment due to an increased risk of lactic acidosis.
• Allergies: Avoid TRIBETROL 1 if you have a history of serious hypersensitivity to glimepiride, metformin, or voglibose.
• Driving: Your ability to drive or operate machinery may be affected by fluctuations in blood sugar levels, so exercise caution.
• Diet and Exercise: This medicine works best when used alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise.

What happens if a dose of TRIBETROL 1 is missed?

If you miss a dose of TRIBETROL 1, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one, as this can be harmful and lead to a drop in glucose levels.

How should TRIBETROL 1 be stored?

TRIBETROL 1 should be stored at room temperature, typically below 25°C or 30°C. Keep it in its original packaging, protected from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Ensure the medicine is securely stored out of reach of children and pets. Always check the expiration date on the packaging and use the medicine before this date.