Istavel D 5/50 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG TABLET: Frequently Asked Questions

ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet is a combination medication used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It contains two active ingredients: Dapagliflozin (5 mg) and Sitagliptin (50 mg). This medicine, along with a healthy diet and regular exercise, helps control blood sugar levels and can also reduce the risk of certain diabetes-related complications.

What is ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet used for?

ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet is primarily used for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It is prescribed when blood sugar levels are not adequately controlled by metformin alone, or with diet and exercise. The medicine also helps in controlling blood sugar and preventing serious complications of diabetes, such as kidney damage, eyesight loss (retinopathy), and nerve damage (neuropathy). It may also be used to treat chronic kidney disease in adults with reduced kidney function and can reduce the risk of heart attack, heart failure, or other cardiovascular events in diabetic patients.

How does ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet work?

ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet contains two active ingredients: Dapagliflozin and Sitagliptin. Dapagliflozin belongs to a class of medicines called sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. It works by blocking a protein in the kidneys that reabsorbs glucose back into the blood, leading to increased glucose excretion through urine and thus lowering blood sugar levels. Sitagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitor. It works by increasing the levels of natural substances called incretins, which help regulate blood sugar by stimulating insulin release after meals and decreasing the amount of sugar the liver produces.

What is the usual dosage for ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet?

The usual dosage of ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet is determined by your doctor, based on your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment. It is typically taken orally once daily, with or without food, preferably at the same time each day for optimal benefits. You should swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water and not crush or chew it. It is crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage and not to exceed it or stop the medication without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet?

Common side effects can include urinary tract infections, nasal congestion, sore throat, upper respiratory tract infections, headache, dizziness, flatulence, constipation, stomach pain, diarrhea, swelling of hands or legs, frequent urination, dry mouth, fungal infections in the genital area, osteoarthritis, and arm or leg pain.

More serious side effects, though rare, require immediate medical attention. These include symptoms of acute pancreatitis (severe and persistent abdominal pain, with or without nausea and vomiting), and serious allergic reactions (rash, hives, blisters on the skin, or swelling of the lips, tongue, face, and throat that may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing). You should also contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, excessive thirst, confusion, sleepiness, tiredness, or pain, tenderness, red blotches, or swelling in the genital or perineal area accompanied by fever or general discomfort, as these could indicate a serious condition.

Is ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to limited information on its effects on pregnant women. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, you should discuss this with your doctor before starting this medicine.

Similarly, there is limited or no information available on whether ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet passes into human breast milk. Therefore, it is advised not to use this medicine while breastfeeding. Inform your doctor if you are a nursing mother.

Can ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet can interact with other medications, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or altering its effectiveness. It is important to inform your doctor about all other medicines, herbal products, or supplements you are currently taking or might take.

Particular caution should be exercised if you are taking:

• Insulin and other anti-diabetic medications (e.g., sulfonylureas, metformin) as this can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
• Diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide) as they may increase the risk of dehydration and low blood pressure, and kidney problems.
• Cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin).
• Medicines for fungal infections (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), bacterial infections (e.g., clarithromycin), or HIV/AIDS (e.g., ritonavir).
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, which could increase the chance of kidney problems.

What precautions should be taken while using ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet?

Several precautions should be taken while using ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet:

• It is not recommended for individuals with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, heart failure, a history of low blood pressure, urinary tract infection, stomach or intestine illness, gallstones, alcohol dependence, or very high levels of triglycerides in the blood.
• To prevent dehydration, it is important to drink plenty of fluids while on this medication.
• Maintain good personal hygiene to help prevent genital fungal infections, which are a possible side effect.
• Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential.
• Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly, as this can lead to increased blood sugar levels and a higher risk of serious complications like kidney damage and blindness.
• Avoid or consume alcohol with caution, as it can affect blood glucose levels and increase the risk of certain side effects.
• The medicine may cause dizziness; therefore, you should only drive or operate machinery if you are feeling alert.

What happens if a dose of ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet, 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 make up for the missed one.

How should ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet be stored?

ISTAVEL D 5/50 MG Tablet should be stored in a cool and dry place, preferably below 30°C. Keep it away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, light, and moisture. Always ensure the medicine is kept out of the reach and sight of children and pets.