Exermet Gm 502 Tablet (15 Tab)

EXERMET GM 502 TABLET (15 TAB) by CIPLA LTD.

Name

• Brand Name: EXERMET GM 502 TABLET (15 TAB)
• Common Name: Exermet GM 502 Tablet PR (Prolonged Release)

Composition

EXERMET GM 502 TABLET contains a combination of two active ingredients:

• Glimepiride (2 mg)
• Metformin (500 mg)

Uses

EXERMET GM 502 TABLET is primarily used for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. It is prescribed when diet, exercise, and a single anti-diabetic agent alone are not sufficient to achieve adequate blood sugar control. This medication helps control blood sugar levels, improves the body's response to insulin, and can reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications such as kidney damage, eye damage, nerve problems, and cardiovascular diseases.

Dosage and Administration

The tablet is typically taken orally, once daily, and should be consumed with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. It is crucial to swallow the tablet whole with water and not crush, chew, or break it. The dosage is highly individualized and determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient's blood glucose levels and response to treatment. It is important to take the medicine regularly at the same time each day for optimal benefit and to continue taking it as prescribed, even if blood sugar levels are controlled, without consulting a doctor.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which may manifest as sweating, dizziness, headache, and shaking
• Altered taste
• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Weight gain

Serious Side Effects (Rare):

• Lactic acidosis, a medical emergency characterized by increased levels of lactic acid in the blood, with symptoms including muscle pain or weakness, dizziness, tiredness, a feeling of cold in arms and legs, difficulty in breathing, persistent nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency (with long-term use)
• Inflammation of the liver which may result in jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
• Severe allergic reactions (e.g., skin rash, hives, increased sensitivity to sun, inflammation of blood vessels leading to difficulty in breathing, fall in blood pressure, and sometimes shock)

Precautions

• Hypoglycemia Management: Patients should be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar and carry a fast-acting source of glucose (e.g., sugary food, fruit juice) to address it. Regular meals are essential.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of hypoglycemia and lactic acidosis.
• Kidney and Liver Disease: Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease. It is not recommended in severe cases of either condition, and regular monitoring of kidney function is advisable.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: EXERMET GM 502 TABLET is not recommended during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby, and it should be avoided while breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause low blood sugar levels, leading to drowsiness or confusion. Patients should only drive or operate machinery if they are alert.
• Contraindications: Do not take if you have Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe heart disease, or known allergies to glimepiride, metformin, or any other components of the medicine.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.

Storage

Store EXERMET GM 502 TABLET in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The recommended storage temperature is typically at or below 30°C (e.g., 10ºC to 25ºC). Keep the medicine out of the reach and sight of children.

What is EXERMET GM 502 TABLET used for?

EXERMET GM 502 TABLET is a combination medicine primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It helps control high blood sugar levels when diet and exercise alone are not sufficient. By effectively managing blood glucose, it helps reduce the risk of serious diabetes-related complications such as kidney damage, eye problems, nerve issues, and cardiovascular diseases.

How does EXERMET GM 502 TABLET work?

This medicine contains two active ingredients: Glimepiride and Metformin. Glimepiride is a sulfonylurea that works by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin, which helps lower blood glucose levels. Metformin is a biguanide that functions by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, delaying the absorption of glucose from the intestines, and enhancing the body's sensitivity to insulin. Together, these actions help to regulate blood sugar.

What is the usual dosage of EXERMET GM 502 TABLET?

EXERMET GM 502 TABLET is typically taken once a day, with food, preferably with the first meal of the day. The dosage is individualized by your doctor, who will determine the appropriate amount based on your blood sugar levels, kidney function, and overall response to treatment. It is crucial to swallow the tablet whole with water and not to crush or chew it. Never change your dose or stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of EXERMET GM 502 TABLET?

Common side effects may include hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), altered taste, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache, and vomiting. Some individuals might also experience weight gain.

More serious, but rare, side effects can include lactic acidosis, which is a medical emergency. Symptoms of lactic acidosis can involve muscle pain or weakness, dizziness, severe tiredness, difficulty breathing, persistent nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain. Long-term use can also lead to vitamin B12 deficiency. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any severe or persistent symptoms.

Is EXERMET GM 502 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

EXERMET GM 502 TABLET is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may be unsafe and could harm the unborn baby. Similarly, it is considered unsafe during breastfeeding as the drug may pass into breast milk and potentially cause adverse effects in the baby. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can EXERMET GM 502 TABLET be taken with other medications?

Yes, EXERMET GM 502 TABLET can interact with other medications. Taking it with other antidiabetic medicines can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Certain medications, such as CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole, amiodarone) or other glucose-lowering drugs (e.g., salicylates, sulphonamides), can increase the effects of glimepiride, potentially leading to lower blood sugar levels. It is important to inform your doctor about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while taking EXERMET GM 502 TABLET?

Several precautions should be observed:

• Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor.
• Hypoglycemia Awareness: Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar (e.g., sweating, dizziness, headache, shaking) and always carry a fast-acting source of glucose (like fruit juice or glucose tablets) with you.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of both low blood sugar and a serious condition called lactic acidosis.
• Kidney and Liver Conditions: Use with caution if you have kidney or liver disease. It is not recommended for severe kidney or liver impairment, and dose adjustments may be necessary for milder conditions.
• Surgery: Inform your doctor about your diabetes treatment if you are scheduled for surgery under general anesthetic.
• Other Conditions: This medicine is not suitable for individuals with type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or severe heart problems.
• Children: It is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age.
• Driving: Your ability to drive may be affected if your blood sugar is too low or too high; use caution.
• Dietary Interactions: High-fiber foods may slow metformin absorption.
• Grapefruit Juice: Avoid consuming grapefruit juice while on this medication.
• Sun Sensitivity: This medicine can make your skin more sensitive to the sun; use sunscreen.

What happens if a dose of EXERMET GM 502 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 dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed one.

How should EXERMET GM 502 TABLET be stored?

Store EXERMET GM 502 TABLET in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of the reach and sight of children. The recommended storage temperature is generally between 20-25°C or below 30°C.