Istamet G Ir 50/500/1mg Tab

ISTAMET G IR 50/500/1MG TAB

Name

• Brand Name: ISTAMET G IR 50/500/1MG TAB

Composition ISTAMET G IR 50/500/1MG TAB is a combination medication containing three active ingredients:

• Sitagliptin: 50 mg
• Metformin: 500 mg
• Glimepiride: 1 mg The "IR" in the name signifies "Immediate Release".

Uses This medicine is prescribed for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. It is typically used when diet and exercise alone or in combination with other blood sugar-lowering medicines do not achieve adequate glycemic control. ISTAMET G IR helps to lower both fasting and postprandial (after-meal) blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of long-term diabetes complications such as heart, kidney, nerve, and eye damage.

Dosage and Administration ISTAMET G IR 50/500/1MG TAB is generally taken orally, once or twice daily, with meals to minimize stomach upset and enhance absorption. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, broken, or chewed. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and timing and to maintain a consistent dosing schedule. Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly.

Side Effects

• Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), constipation, loss of appetite, metallic taste, weakness, and dizziness.
• Serious Side Effects (Rare): Lactic acidosis (a rare but serious buildup of lactic acid in the blood), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), vitamin B12 deficiency, or liver problems. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include muscle pain, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, and weakness.

Precautions

• Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption, as it can increase the risk of hypoglycemia and lactic acidosis.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor for alternative treatments.
• Kidney & Liver Impairment: Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver problems. It is contraindicated in severe cases due to increased risks. Regular monitoring of kidney function is recommended.
• Hypoglycemia: Be aware of hypoglycemia symptoms (sweating, shakiness, dizziness) and carry a quick source of sugar.
• Other Conditions: Contraindicated in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe infection, recent heart attack, or known allergy to any components.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Children: Not recommended for individuals under 18 years of age.

Storage Store ISTAMET G IR tablets in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Store at temperatures below 25°C or not above 30°C. Do not use after the expiry date.

ISTAMET G IR 50/500/1MG TAB is a combination medicine used to treat Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It contains Sitagliptin (50mg), Metformin (500mg), and Glimepiride (1mg).

What is ISTAMET G IR used for?

ISTAMET G IR 50/500/1MG TAB is used to manage Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults, typically when diet and exercise alone, or with other blood sugar-lowering medicines, are not enough to control blood sugar levels. It helps to lower blood glucose, improve the body's response to insulin, and reduce the risk of long-term diabetes complications such as kidney damage, eye damage, nerve problems, and heart conditions.

How does ISTAMET G IR work?

This medicine combines three active ingredients that work together to control blood sugar:

• Sitagliptin (a DPP-4 inhibitor) increases the levels of natural substances called incretins. Incretins help to control blood sugar by increasing insulin release, especially after meals, and decreasing the amount of sugar the liver makes.
• Metformin (a biguanide) reduces the production of glucose by the liver and delays the absorption of sugar from the intestines. It also improves the body's sensitivity to insulin.
• Glimepiride (a sulfonylurea) stimulates beta cells in the pancreas to produce more insulin, which helps the body utilize glucose effectively.

What is the usual dosage of ISTAMET G IR?

ISTAMET G IR 50/500/1MG TAB is typically taken orally, usually once or twice daily, with meals to help reduce stomach upset. The dose and duration are determined by your doctor based on your condition and how well you respond to the treatment. It's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and timing. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablet; swallow it whole with water.

What are the possible side effects of ISTAMET G IR?

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, upset stomach, headache, and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Serious, but rare, side effects can include lactic acidosis (a buildup of lactic acid in the blood, often associated with metformin), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), and allergic reactions. If you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, or signs of lactic acidosis (e.g., muscle pain, weakness, dizziness), contact your doctor immediately.

Is ISTAMET G IR safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

ISTAMET G IR is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Sitagliptin, one of its components, is not recommended during pregnancy due to limited information on its effects on a developing baby. While metformin may be considered, it does cross the placenta and is excreted into breast milk in small amounts. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor, as they will need to review your treatment and may suggest a safer alternative.

Can ISTAMET G IR be taken with other medications?

ISTAMET G IR can interact with several other medications. Inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter medicines, herbs, and supplements you are taking. Some medications that may interact include:

• Antidepressants (e.g., bupropion)
• Drugs used to treat glaucoma
• Antibiotics (e.g., cephalexin, ciprofloxacin)
• Anti-acidity drugs (e.g., cimetidine)
• Heart condition drugs (e.g., digoxin)
• Anti-epileptic drugs (e.g., topiramate, lamotrigine)
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., acetazolamide)
• Strong CYP2C8 inhibitors (e.g., gemfibrozil)
• Medications that reduce metformin clearance (e.g., ranolazine, vandetanib, dolutegravir)
• Insulin or other oral antidiabetic drugs (may increase risk of hypoglycemia)
• Diuretics and steroids.

What precautions should be taken with ISTAMET G IR?

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): This medicine can cause low blood sugar, especially when taken with other antidiabetic medicines or alcohol, or if meals are delayed or missed. Always carry sugary food or fruit juice to treat symptoms like sweating, dizziness, and tremors.
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it increases the risk of hypoglycemia and a serious condition called lactic acidosis.
• Kidney and Liver Disease: Not recommended for patients with severe kidney or liver disease. Your doctor may need to assess your kidney function regularly.
• Dehydration: Dehydration from conditions like high fever, severe infection, prolonged diarrhea, or vomiting can increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drink plenty of fluids.
• Surgery/Diagnostic Tests: You may need to stop this medicine before major surgery or diagnostic tests involving iodinated contrast dyes.
• Pancreatitis: Inform your doctor if you have a history of pancreatitis or experience severe stomach pain with or without vomiting while on this medicine.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience these side effects.
• Lifestyle: This medication is part of a treatment plan that should also include a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a forgotten one. If you frequently miss doses, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

How should ISTAMET G IR be stored?

Store the medicine in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep it in its original container and out of the reach of children.