Istamet G Ir 50/1000/1

ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1

ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1 is a combination medication manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD., primarily used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Composition Each tablet contains three active ingredients:

• Sitagliptin: 50 mg
• Metformin Hydrochloride: 1000 mg
• Glimepiride: 1 mg

These ingredients work synergistically to improve insulin levels, reduce glucose production in the liver, and enhance insulin sensitivity to achieve better glycemic control.

Uses ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1 is prescribed for:

• Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults, particularly when diet and exercise alone are insufficient to control blood sugar levels.
• Lowering high blood sugar levels and improving overall blood sugar control.
• Reducing the risk of long-term diabetes-related complications such as nerve damage, kidney problems, eye issues, and heart conditions.
• Off-label use for the management of insulin resistance associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Dosage and Administration This medication is typically taken orally once or twice daily, as directed by a healthcare professional. It should be taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Tablets must be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or broken. Consistent timing of doses and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels are essential for optimal effectiveness.

Side Effects

• Common Side Effects: Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache, frequent urination, upper respiratory tract infections, and musculoskeletal pain.
• Serious Side Effects: Lactic acidosis (a rare but serious condition, especially with severe kidney or liver impairment) and severe allergic reactions. Report any persistent or worsening side effects to your doctor promptly.

Precautions

• Contraindications: Do not take if you have type 1 diabetes mellitus, acute or chronic metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis), severe kidney or liver disease, heart failure, a recent history of heart attack, severe circulatory problems, dehydration, severe infection, or an allergy to any of its components.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid alcohol as it increases the risk of hypoglycemia and lactic acidosis.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Generally not recommended; consult your doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Driving and Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness or low blood sugar, which could affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Exercise caution.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to prevent potential drug interactions. Certain medications like corticosteroids, calcium channel blockers, and sympathomimetics may affect its efficacy.
• Elderly Patients: Use with caution, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.

Storage Store ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1 in a cool, dry place, typically below 30°C or between 20-25°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children.

What is ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1 used for?

ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1 is an antidiabetic medicine used to manage high blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It is typically prescribed when diet and exercise alone, or other single-drug treatments, are not sufficient to control blood sugar. The medication helps to reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications such as nerve damage, kidney issues, eye problems, and heart conditions.

How does ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1 work?

This medicine is a combination of three active ingredients: Sitagliptin (50mg), Metformin (1000mg), and Glimepiride (1mg).

• Sitagliptin (a DPP-4 inhibitor) enhances glucose-mediated insulin secretion and reduces glucagon levels when blood sugar is high.
• Metformin (a biguanide) works by decreasing glucose production in the liver, delaying sugar absorption from the intestines, and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin.
• Glimepiride (a sulfonylurea) stimulates beta cells in the pancreas to produce more insulin. Together, these components work to effectively control blood sugar levels through multiple pathways.

What is the usual dosage for ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1?

ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1 should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is typically taken once or twice daily, usually with meals to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed, chewed, or broken. Your doctor will determine the dose and duration based on your blood sugar levels and response to treatment. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

What are the possible side effects of ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1?

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, frequent urination, and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). More serious but rare side effects can include lactic acidosis, especially in patients with kidney or liver impairment, or those consuming alcohol. If any side effects persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor.

Is ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1 is generally not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it is unknown whether the medication can cause harm to an unborn baby or pass into breast milk. It is crucial to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding before starting this medication.

Can ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1 be taken with other medications?

This medicine can interact with several other medications. Inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions. Some medications that may interact include:

• Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone, dexamethasone) may reduce the blood sugar-lowering effect.
• Calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine, diltiazem) can decrease glimepiride's effectiveness.
• Sympathomimetics (e.g., salbutamol, epinephrine) may raise blood glucose levels.
• ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril) may increase the risk of kidney problems.
• Beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol, metoprolol) can mask symptoms of hypoglycemia.
• Thyroid medications (e.g., levothyroxine) can affect blood sugar control.
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., topiramate, zonisamide) and kidney transport inhibitors (e.g., ranolazine) may increase the risk or accumulation of metformin.

What precautions should be taken while taking ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1?

• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it significantly increases the risk of hypoglycemia and lactic acidosis.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have severe liver or kidney disease, heart failure, a history of pancreatitis, or active bladder cancer.
• Driving/Machinery: Be cautious while driving or operating machinery, as the medication can cause dizziness or low blood sugar, which may impair concentration.
• Children and Elderly: It is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age. Use with caution in the elderly, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1, 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 a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

How should ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1 be stored?

Store ISTAMET G IR 50/1000/1 in a cool, dry place, typically below 25°C or 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it in its original packaging and out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use the medicine after its expiry date.