Voliphage M 0.3

VOLIPHAGE M 0.3

Voliphage M 0.3 is a medicine manufactured by FRANCO-INDIAN PHARMACEUTICALS PVT. LTD., primarily used for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults.

Composition

Each uncoated bilayered tablet contains:

• Voglibose: 0.3 mg
• Metformin Hydrochloride I.P.: 500 mg (in Sustained Release form)

Uses

Voliphage M 0.3 is prescribed for:

• Regulating and maintaining overall high blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
• Reducing post-meal high blood sugar levels (postprandial hyperglycemia).
• Balancing elevated fasting blood glucose levels.
• It is often used as a second-line therapy when diet, exercise, and therapy with single anti-diabetic agents do not provide adequate glycemic control.

Dosage and Administration

Voliphage M 0.3 should be taken orally as directed by your physician.

• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not split, crush, or chew.
• It is generally recommended to take the tablet with food to help prevent stomach upset and maximize effectiveness, ideally at the same time each day.
• The dosage may vary based on your condition and response to the medicine. Do not increase your dosage without consulting your doctor.
• Continue taking the medicine for the duration prescribed by your doctor, even if blood sugar levels are controlled.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Flatulence (excessive gas)
• Changes in taste
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Dizziness
• General weakness

Serious, though rare, side effects include:

• Lactic acidosis, characterized by symptoms such as vomiting, stomach pain, decreased heartbeat, difficulty breathing, muscle cramps, and severe tiredness.
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), particularly when used with other anti-diabetic medicines like insulin or sulfonylureas, or if meals are delayed or missed.

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Voliphage M 0.3 is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to a lack of safety and effectiveness data.
• Alcohol: Caution is advised with alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia.
• Kidney and Liver Impairment: It is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment and should be used with caution in patients with liver problems. Regular monitoring of kidney function is advisable.
• Other Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have acute metabolic acidosis, heart problems (e.g., recent heart attack, heart failure), severe infections, trauma, diabetic pre-coma, or gastrointestinal obstruction.
• Children: Safety and effectiveness have not been established in children aged less than 18 years.
• Elderly Patients: Use with caution in elderly patients (aged 65 years or above), with frequent monitoring of kidney function.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all ongoing medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as interactions can occur with cationic medicines (e.g., amiloride, digoxin) and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., topiramate, acetazolamide).

Storage

Store Voliphage M 0.3 below 25°C or 30°C in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Here are frequently asked questions about VOLIPHAGE M 0.3:

What is VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 used for?

VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It helps to regulate high blood sugar levels, maintain overall blood glucose control, and reduce post-meal high blood sugar levels, especially when diet and exercise alone are not sufficient. It also helps prevent complications associated with diabetes, such as kidney damage, eye problems, nerve issues, and amputations.

How does VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 work?

VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 is a combination medicine containing Voglibose and Metformin. Voglibose is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that delays the digestion and absorption of complex carbohydrates in the small intestine, which helps prevent a sudden rise in blood sugar levels after meals. Metformin is a biguanide that works by decreasing glucose production in the liver, reducing glucose absorption from the intestines, and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin.

What is the usual dosage for VOLIPHAGE M 0.3?

VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 should be taken as directed by your doctor. It is typically taken orally with or immediately before meals to help prevent nausea and abdominal discomfort. The dosage and frequency will be determined by your doctor based on your individual needs and response to treatment. It's crucial to take it consistently at the same time each day for optimal results.

What are the possible side effects of VOLIPHAGE M 0.3?

Common side effects of VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, gas (flatulence), weakness, indigestion, headaches, and decreased appetite. Some individuals may also experience hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if taken with other antidiabetic drugs, alcohol, or if meals are missed. A serious but rare side effect is lactic acidosis, characterized by muscle pain, breathing difficulty, and weakness.

Is VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 is generally not recommended during pregnancy, and limited information is available regarding its safety in pregnant women. It is known to pass into breast milk, although the amount is usually low. However, it is probably unsafe during breastfeeding, and consulting your doctor before taking this medicine while pregnant or breastfeeding is essential.

Can VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 be taken with other medications?

VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 may interact with other medicines. It's important to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are taking. Some medications that may interact include those used to reduce pain and swelling (like ibuprofen and celecoxib), asthma medications (like salbutamol), diuretics (like furosemide), cationic medicines (like amiloride, digoxin, morphine), and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (like topiramate, acetazolamide).

What precautions should be taken while taking VOLIPHAGE M 0.3?

You should take VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 with food and at the same time daily as prescribed. Do not stop the medication without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well, as abrupt discontinuation can lead to increased blood sugar levels and serious complications. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can lower blood sugar and increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Inform your doctor if you have severe kidney or liver disease, heart failure, serious infections, or alcoholism. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and kidney function is advisable.

What happens if a dose of VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 is missed?

If you miss a dose of VOLIPHAGE M 0.3, take it as soon as you remember with food. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

How should VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 be stored?

VOLIPHAGE M 0.3 should be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children and pets. It should be stored at temperatures between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.