Istamet Xr 500mg Tab

ISTAMET XR 500MG TABLET

Istamet XR 500mg Tablet is an oral antidiabetic medication manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., prescribed for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. It is an extended-release formulation designed to provide sustained blood sugar control.

Composition

• Active Ingredients: Each extended-release tablet contains Sitagliptin (100mg) and Metformin Hydrochloride (500mg).

Uses Istamet XR 500mg Tablet is used to:

• Control high blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, especially when diet and exercise alone are insufficient.
• Improve overall glycemic control by enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing hepatic glucose production.
• Lower both fasting and post-meal blood sugar levels.
• Help prevent serious diabetes-related complications such as kidney damage, eye damage, nerve problems, and cardiovascular issues.

Dosage and Administration

• Istamet XR 500mg Tablet is taken orally, typically with meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
• The exact dosage and frequency (usually once or twice daily) will be determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient's condition and blood sugar levels.
• Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or broken.
• Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor, as this may lead to increased blood sugar levels.

Side Effects Common side effects may include:

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially when taken with other antidiabetic medicines
• Dizziness, sweating, hunger pangs, dry mouth
• Nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, changes in taste
• Headache, upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis, sore throat

Serious, though rare, side effects include:

• Lactic acidosis (symptoms such as muscle pain/weakness, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or a feeling of coldness in the arms and legs)
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing problems)

Precautions

• Istamet XR 500mg Tablet is not for the treatment of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus or diabetic ketoacidosis.
• It is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age.
• Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease; it is contraindicated in severe cases of these conditions.
• Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Patients should inform their doctor about all existing medical conditions and current medications, including herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before taking this medicine.
• Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and kidney function is advisable during treatment.

Storage

• Store Istamet XR 500mg Tablet in a cool and dry place at a temperature not exceeding 30°C.
• Protect from direct light and moisture.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

What is ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB used for?

ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB is a combination medication primarily used to manage high blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It is prescribed in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise to improve glycemic control and help prevent serious complications of diabetes, such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, and cardiovascular issues.

How does ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB work?

This medicine combines two active ingredients: Sitagliptin and Metformin. Sitagliptin works by increasing the production of insulin from the pancreas and decreasing the excess sugar produced by the liver. Metformin, a biguanide, reduces glucose production in the liver, delays glucose absorption from the intestines, and enhances the body's sensitivity to insulin. Together, they provide comprehensive control over blood sugar levels.

What is the usual dosage for ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB?

The dosage of ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB is determined by your doctor based on your condition, current blood sugar levels, and other medications you might be taking. It is generally advised to take this medicine with meals to reduce the chances of an upset stomach. For optimal benefit, it should be taken regularly at the same time each day, and tablets should be swallowed whole without crushing, chewing, or breaking them. Do not stop taking it unless your doctor recommends it.

What are the possible side effects of ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB?

Common side effects include diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infection, headache, nausea, and nasopharyngitis (common cold). Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can occur, especially if taken with other diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas. Serious but rare side effects include lactic acidosis, a medical emergency characterized by symptoms like muscle pain, difficulty breathing, and stomach pain, and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, or breathing problems are also possible.

Is ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Information regarding its use during pregnancy is limited, and it is probably unsafe during breastfeeding as it may pass into breastmilk and harm the baby. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding to weigh the benefits against the potential risks.

Can ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB be taken with other medications?

This medicine can interact with several other medications. Inform your doctor about all the medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking or plan to take. Interactions can occur with cationic medicines (e.g., amiloride, digoxin, morphine), insulin or insulin secretagogues (e.g., sulfonylureas, which can increase the risk of hypoglycemia), corticosteroids, thiazides, and oral contraceptives. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors and certain heart medications may also interact, potentially increasing the risk of lactic acidosis.

What precautions should be taken while using ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB?

Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking this medicine as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis. It's crucial to follow a healthy diet and regular exercise program as advised by your doctor. Inform your doctor if you have a history of kidney, liver, or heart disease, problems with your pancreas, or low vitamin B12 levels. Regular monitoring of kidney function and blood sugar levels is important during treatment. ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB is not recommended for patients with severe kidney or liver impairment, Type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or metabolic acidosis. Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor.

What happens if a dose of ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's 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 missed one.

How should ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB be stored?

Store ISTAMET XR 500MG TAB at room temperature, not exceeding 30°C. Keep it in a cool, dry place, protected from direct light and moisture. Ensure it is kept out of the sight and reach of children.