Exermet Gm 501 Tablet (15 Tab)

EXERMET GM 501 TABLET (15 TAB) by CIPLA LTD.

Name:

• Brand Name: Exermet GM 501 Tablet
• Common Name: Glimepiride and Metformin combination tablet.

Composition: Each tablet contains Glimepiride (1 mg) and Metformin (500 mg). Some sources also mention a formulation with Voglibose, but the specific product "EXERMET GM 501 TABLET" by Cipla LTD, as requested, consistently lists Glimepiride and Metformin as the active ingredients.

Uses: EXERMET GM 501 TABLET is primarily used for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. It helps control high blood sugar levels when diet and exercise alone, or a single anti-diabetic agent, are not sufficient. This medication works by increasing insulin release from the pancreas and improving the body's utilization of insulin, while also reducing sugar production in the liver. By maintaining proper blood glucose levels, it helps reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications such as kidney damage, eye problems, nerve issues, and heart complications.

Dosage and Administration: This medicine should be taken orally as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day with food. It is important to swallow the whole tablet without crushing or chewing. The dosage and frequency will be determined by a doctor based on the patient's condition and response to medication. Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects: Common side effects include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache, and altered taste. Serious but rare side effects like lactic acidosis can occur, particularly in patients with kidney disease or excessive alcohol intake. Long-term use may also lead to vitamin B12 deficiency.

Precautions:

• Avoid excessive alcohol intake as it increases the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Caution is advised in patients with kidney or liver problems, heart disease, or G6PD deficiency.
• Not recommended for individuals with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis, or severe kidney/liver disease.
• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it is generally contraindicated in these conditions.
• May interact with other medications such as anti-diabetic drugs, ACE inhibitors, certain corticosteroids, and oral contraceptives.

Storage: Store below 30°C. Keep medicines out of the sight and reach of children.

What is EXERMET GM 501 TABLET used for?

EXERMET GM 501 TABLET is primarily used to manage Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. It is prescribed when diet, exercise, or a single antidiabetic medication (like glimepiride or metformin alone) are not sufficient to adequately control blood sugar levels. This medication helps lower high blood sugar and reduces the risk of diabetes-related complications such as kidney damage, eye problems, nerve issues, heart disease, and limb loss.

How does EXERMET GM 501 TABLET work?

EXERMET GM 501 TABLET contains two active ingredients: Glimepiride (1mg) and Metformin (500mg). Glimepiride, a sulfonylurea, works by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin and improving how the body uses insulin. Metformin, a biguanide, reduces the amount of glucose produced by the liver, delays the absorption of glucose from the intestines, and increases the body's sensitivity to insulin. Together, these actions help to effectively lower blood sugar levels.

What is the usual dosage for EXERMET GM 501 TABLET?

The dosage of EXERMET GM 501 TABLET should be taken exactly as advised by your doctor. It is typically taken orally once daily, usually with food, and preferably with the first meal of the day. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose based on your blood sugar levels and how you respond to the medication. It's crucial not to exceed the prescribed dosage.

What are the possible side effects of EXERMET GM 501 TABLET?

Common side effects include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headaches, and altered taste. To manage hypoglycemia, it's advised to carry a fast-acting source of glucose (like sugar candy or fruit juice). Serious but rare side effects can include lactic acidosis (especially with kidney problems or excessive alcohol intake) and vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use. If any side effects persist, worsen, or if you experience severe symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.

Is EXERMET GM 501 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

EXERMET GM 501 TABLET is generally contraindicated during pregnancy, as it may pose risks to the unborn baby; insulin is usually the preferred treatment for diabetes in pregnant women. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding as the medication may pass into breast milk. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Can EXERMET GM 501 TABLET be taken with other medications?

EXERMET GM 501 TABLET can interact with various medications. These include other anti-diabetic drugs (e.g., insulin, gliclazide), ACE inhibitors (like enalapril), Angiotensin II receptor antagonists (like losartan), thiazides, corticosteroids (like prednisolone), oral contraceptives, estrogen, H2 blockers (like cimetidine), and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (like acetazolamide). Always inform your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using EXERMET GM 501 TABLET?

Several precautions should be observed:

• Alcohol: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, or Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, as these conditions may require caution or dosage adjustment. It is not suitable for Type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential to assess the effectiveness of the medication and to prevent hypoglycemia.
• Surgery: Inform your doctor about your diabetes treatment if you are scheduled for surgery under general anesthetic.

What happens if a dose of EXERMET GM 501 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 one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

How should EXERMET GM 501 TABLET be stored?

EXERMET GM 501 TABLET should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, ideally below 30°C. Keep it away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight, and out of the reach of children. Do not keep outdated medicine.