Gluconorm P 15 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

What is GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET used for?

GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET is a combination medicine containing Pioglitazone and Metformin. It is primarily used with proper diet and exercise to manage high blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps improve glycemic control, especially when diet, exercise, and single antidiabetic agents are not sufficient. This medicine is not for treating type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

How does GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET work?

GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET contains two active ingredients that work differently to control blood sugar. Pioglitazone, a thiazolidinedione, increases the body's sensitivity to insulin, helping muscle, fat, and liver cells use insulin more effectively to take up glucose from the blood. Metformin, a biguanide, works by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, decreasing the absorption of sugar from the stomach, and improving the body's overall use of sugar. This dual action helps lower both fasting and after-meal blood sugar levels.

What is the usual dosage for GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET?

The dosage of GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET is determined by your doctor based on your blood sugar levels and how you respond to treatment. For adults, the typical starting dose is one tablet once or twice a day with food. Your doctor may adjust the dose as needed, but it generally should not exceed 45 milligrams (mg) of pioglitazone and 2550 mg of metformin per day for immediate-release tablets, or 2000 mg of metformin for extended-release tablets. It is important to take this medicine with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, break, or chew it.

What are the possible side effects of GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET?

Common side effects may include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain/discomfort, weight gain, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and muscle pain.

Serious side effects, which require immediate medical attention, include:

• Allergic reactions: Rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Heart failure: Shortness of breath, rapid weight gain, swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands, unusual weakness or fatigue, or chest pain.
• Lactic acidosis: Unusual muscle pain, feeling cold, trouble breathing, dizziness, light-headedness, extreme tiredness or weakness, stomach pain, vomiting, or a slow or irregular heart rate.
• Liver problems: Pain in the upper stomach, pale stools, dark urine, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or yellowing of the eyes or skin.
• Vision changes: Blurred vision, decreased vision, or seeing halos around lights.
• Bladder cancer: Blood in the urine, a frequent, strong, or increased urge to urinate, or painful urination.
• Bone fractures: Especially in women.
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Can occur, particularly if combined with other diabetes medicines, or if meals are delayed or missed. Symptoms include dizziness, headache, feeling sleepy or weak, shaking, fast heartbeat, confusion, hunger, or sweating.

Is GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to limited information on pioglitazone's safety. Insulin and metformin are often considered safer alternatives for managing diabetes during pregnancy. Pioglitazone may also induce ovulation in premenopausal women who do not have regular monthly periods, potentially increasing the chance of pregnancy.

Breastfeeding: Pioglitazone is not usually recommended while breastfeeding because it is unknown how much of the medicine passes into breast milk and it could potentially lower the baby's blood sugar level. Metformin does pass into breast milk in limited amounts, but the risk of neonatal hypoglycemia is considered negligible. Your doctor will help determine the best course of action if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.

Can GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET can interact with numerous other medications, supplements, and herbal products. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions. Some medications that may interact include strong CYP2C8 inhibitors (e.g., gemfibrozil), CYP2C8 inducers (e.g., rifampin), carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, certain antivirals for HIV or hepatitis, specific blood pressure or heart medications, cimetidine, digoxin, diuretics, female hormones (including birth control pills), insulin, NSAIDs, ranolazine, and steroid medications. Additionally, medical procedures involving iodinated contrast dyes may require temporary discontinuation of this medicine.

What precautions should be taken while taking GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET?

Several precautions should be taken:

• Heart Health: Monitor closely for signs and symptoms of heart failure or fluid retention, such as rapid weight gain, shortness of breath, or swelling in the ankles, feet, or hands.
• Lactic Acidosis: Be aware of symptoms of lactic acidosis, including unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, and extreme tiredness, and seek immediate medical help if they occur.
• Liver Function: Your doctor may need to check your liver enzymes regularly. Report any symptoms of liver problems like dark urine or yellowing skin/eyes.
• Vision: Report any changes in vision to your doctor, as this medicine can sometimes cause or worsen macular edema.
• Bone Health: Pioglitazone may increase the risk of bone fractures, particularly in women.
• Bladder Cancer: There might be an increased risk of bladder cancer with prolonged use of pioglitazone. Report any blood in urine or changes in urination patterns.
• Alcohol Consumption: Limit or avoid alcohol, as heavy alcohol use can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Surgery/Tests: Inform your doctor or dentist you are taking this medicine before any major surgery or diagnostic tests, especially those using contrast dyes, as it may need to be stopped temporarily.
• Women of Childbearing Potential: This medicine may cause ovulation in women who do not have regular monthly periods, potentially increasing the chance of pregnancy. Discuss birth control options with your doctor.

What happens if a dose of GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET is missed?

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 make up for the forgotten one. If you frequently miss doses, setting an alarm or asking your pharmacist for advice on remembering to take your medicine may be helpful.

How should GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET be stored?

Store GLUCONORM P 15 MG TABLET in a closed container at room temperature, typically between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F), away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not allow it to freeze. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children and pets.