Voliphage M 0.2

VOLIPHAGE M 0.2

Name: Voliphage M 0.2 (Brand Name) Manufactured by FRANCO-INDIAN PHARMACEUTICALS PVT. LTD.

Composition: Each tablet contains:

• Voglibose: 0.2 mg
• Metformin Hydrochloride: 500 mg

Uses: Voliphage M 0.2 is prescribed for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. It is typically used when diet, exercise, and therapy with single anti-diabetic agents do not adequately control blood sugar levels. It helps improve glycemic control by reducing sugar production in the liver, increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin, and slowing the absorption of carbohydrates in the gut, thereby preventing a sudden rise in blood sugar levels after meals (postprandial hyperglycemia).

Dosage and Administration: Voliphage M 0.2 should be taken orally as directed by a doctor. It is recommended to swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, usually with or after a meal, to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Taking it at a fixed time each day is advisable for optimal results. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Patients should not stop taking this medication without consulting their doctor.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain and discomfort
• Flatulence (gas)
• Headache
• Decreased appetite
• Changes in taste Serious but rare side effects can include lactic acidosis (symptoms like muscle pain, breathing difficulty, weakness, stomach pain) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially when used with other anti-diabetic drugs or alcohol.

Precautions:

• Voliphage M 0.2 is not recommended for individuals with severe kidney or liver impairment, acute metabolic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe infections, trauma, gastrointestinal obstruction, heart problems, or alcoholism.
• Caution is advised in elderly patients (aged 65 years or above), and kidney function should be monitored more frequently.
• Avoid consuming alcohol during treatment, as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Patients who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should consult their doctor before taking this medicine.
• Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is important, and patients should carry a fast-acting sugar source in case of hypoglycemia.
• Long-term use may reduce Vitamin B12 absorption, and annual screening of serum Vitamin B12 levels is recommended.

Storage: Store Voliphage M 0.2 in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. It should be kept at temperatures below 25°C or 30°C. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about Voliphage M 0.2:

What is Voliphage M 0.2 used for?

Voliphage M 0.2 is an anti-diabetic medication primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It helps control high blood sugar levels, especially when diet, exercise, and a single diabetes medicine are not sufficient. It improves blood glucose control by addressing both fasting and post-meal (after food) sugar spikes.

How does Voliphage M 0.2 work?

This medicine is a combination of two active ingredients: Metformin and Voglibose. Metformin works by reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver, decreasing sugar absorption from the intestines, and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin, allowing it to use sugar more effectively. Voglibose, an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, delays the breakdown and absorption of complex carbohydrates in the intestines, which helps prevent a sudden rise in blood sugar levels after meals.

What is the usual dosage for Voliphage M 0.2?

The dosage of Voliphage M 0.2 is determined by your doctor based on your individual health condition and response to treatment. It is typically taken with or after meals to help prevent nausea and abdominal discomfort. It's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and take it at a fixed time each day for optimal results.

What are the possible side effects of Voliphage M 0.2?

Common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gas (flatulence), indigestion, abdominal pain, weakness, headaches, decreased appetite, changes in taste, and dizziness. More serious but rare side effects can include lactic acidosis (symptoms like muscle pain, difficulty breathing, severe tiredness, stomach pain, vomiting) or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially when taken with other antidiabetic drugs or alcohol.

Is Voliphage M 0.2 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Voliphage M 0.2 is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy, and limited information is available regarding its safety in pregnant women; consult your doctor. While Metformin, one of its components, is known to pass into breast milk in low amounts, it is still advisable to consult your doctor before taking this medicine while breastfeeding.

Can Voliphage M 0.2 be taken with other medications?

Voliphage M 0.2 can interact with other medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are currently taking. Potential interactions include those with certain pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, celecoxib), asthma medications (e.g., salbutamol), diuretics (e.g., furosemide), and other antidiabetic drugs, which can increase the risk of low blood sugar.

What precautions should be taken while on Voliphage M 0.2?

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia. Inform your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or heart conditions, severe infections, or are scheduled for surgery. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is important. Always carry a quick source of sugar (like candy or juice) to manage potential low blood sugar episodes. This medicine is not for Type 1 diabetes.

What happens if a dose of Voliphage M 0.2 is missed?

If you miss a dose of Voliphage M 0.2, take it as soon as you remember, preferably with food. However, if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

How should Voliphage M 0.2 be stored?

Voliphage M 0.2 should be stored in a cool, dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. The ideal storage temperature is typically below 30°C. Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets.