Switglim Mv 1/0.2 (15 Tab)

SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 (15 TAB) by AKUMENTIS HEALTHCARE LTD

SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 is an oral anti-diabetic medication used for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is prescribed when diet, exercise, and treatment with one or two other oral anti-diabetic medications are insufficient to control blood sugar levels effectively.

Composition Each uncoated bilayered tablet contains:

• Glimepiride: 1 mg
• Metformin Hydrochloride (as extended release): 500 mg
• Voglibose: 0.2 mg

Uses SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It helps to control blood sugar levels by:

• Increasing the amount of insulin released by the pancreas (Glimepiride).
• Lowering glucose production in the liver, delaying glucose absorption from the intestines, and increasing the body's response to insulin (Metformin).
• Preventing the breakdown of complex sugars into simple sugars in the intestine, thereby reducing the rise in blood glucose levels after meals (Voglibose). Controlling blood sugar levels helps prevent serious complications of diabetes such as kidney damage, eye damage (blindness), nerve problems, and loss of limbs, as well as reducing the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Dosage and Administration SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 tablets should be taken orally as directed by your doctor.

• It is generally recommended to take the tablet with or immediately before meals, specifically with breakfast or the first main meal of the day to avoid an upset stomach and manage hypoglycemia.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
• For optimal results, it is recommended to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood sugar control.
• The dosage may be adjusted by your doctor based on your blood sugar levels and response to treatment. Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects Common side effects may include:

• Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels), characterized by dizziness, sweating, hunger pangs, dry mouth and skin, headache, shakiness, and confusion.
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and flatulence.
• Changes in taste, metallic taste.
• Headache, upper respiratory symptoms.
• Weight gain (due to Glimepiride).
• Vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use of Metformin.

Serious side effects (rare) can include:

• Lactic acidosis, a rare but serious condition that can damage the liver and kidneys.
• Bullous pemphigoid (a serious skin reaction).
• Severe hypoglycemia.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to glimepiride, metformin, voglibose, other sulfonylureas, or sulphonamides.
• Medical Conditions: Not recommended for type 1 diabetes mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe kidney or liver disease, acute conditions (like dehydration or severe infection), severe ketosis, severe trauma, lung problems (e.g., acute or chronic respiratory failure), or heart problems (e.g., acute or chronic cardiac failure or recent myocardial infarction).
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it may harm the fetus or nursing child. Consult your doctor.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it increases the risk of low blood sugar and lactic acidosis.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, herbal products, or supplements you are taking, as interactions can occur with antibacterials, antifungals, other antidiabetics (including insulin), anticancer drugs, disopyramide, fenyramidol, pentoxifylline, medicines for joint pain, corticosteroids, diuretics, laxatives, phenytoin, fenfluramine, dolutegravir, and thyroid medicines.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is crucial. Your doctor may also advise blood tests to monitor blood cell counts, liver function, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
• Driving: If you experience dizziness or blurred vision due to low blood sugar, avoid driving or operating machinery.

Storage Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light and moisture, at a temperature not exceeding 30°C (or below 25°C in some recommendations). Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Here are the Frequently Asked Questions about SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2:

What is SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 used for?

SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 is an anti-diabetic medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It is typically prescribed when diet, exercise, and single or dual anti-diabetic therapies are insufficient to control blood sugar levels adequately. This medication helps manage blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and prevent serious complications of diabetes such as kidney damage, nerve damage, vision problems, heart attack, or stroke.

How does SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 work?

SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 is a combination of three antidiabetic drugs: Glimepiride, Metformin, and Voglibose, each working through different mechanisms to control blood sugar.

• Glimepiride (a sulfonylurea) increases the amount of insulin released by the pancreas.
• Metformin (a biguanide) works by lowering glucose production in the liver, delaying glucose absorption from the intestines, and increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin.
• Voglibose (an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor) prevents the breakdown of complex sugars into simple sugars like glucose in the intestine, thereby slowing down glucose absorption and reducing the rise in blood glucose levels after meals.

What is the usual dosage for SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2?

The usual dose of SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 is typically one tablet per day, or as prescribed by your doctor. It should be taken with or immediately before meals, usually with breakfast or your first main meal, to help reduce stomach upset and the risk of low blood sugar. Your doctor will determine the best dose for you, which may be adjusted based on your blood sugar levels and response to treatment. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet; swallow it whole with a glass of water.

What are the possible side effects of SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2?

The most common side effect is hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels), characterized by dizziness, sweating, hunger pangs, dry mouth, and skin. Other common side effects include taste changes, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, flatulence, and upper respiratory symptoms. Some individuals may also experience weight gain. More serious but rare side effects can include lactic acidosis (a dangerous buildup of lactic acid in the blood) and bullous pemphigoid (a serious skin reaction).

Is SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may be unsafe and could harm the developing baby. Your doctor may advise switching to insulin therapy, which is considered safer for managing diabetes during pregnancy. Similarly, it is probably unsafe during breastfeeding as components like Metformin can pass into breast milk and potentially affect the baby. It is important to consult your doctor to discuss alternative management options while nursing.

Can SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 be taken with other medications?

SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 can interact with various medications.

• Increased risk of hypoglycemia: Taking it with other anti-diabetic medicines (like insulin or glipizide), certain antibacterials (e.g., ciprofloxacin, chloramphenicol), antifungals (e.g., fluconazole), and disopyramide can increase the risk of low blood sugar.
• Reduced effectiveness: Medicines like diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone), and thyroid medicines (e.g., levothyroxine) can reduce the effectiveness of SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2, leading to higher blood sugar levels.
• Other interactions: It may also interact with blood thinners, oral contraceptives, medicines for constipation, anti-epileptic medicines (e.g., phenytoin), and certain painkillers. Always inform your doctor about all medicines, including herbal supplements, you are currently taking.

What precautions should be taken while taking SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2?

Several precautions should be observed:

• Hypoglycemia awareness: Be aware of the signs of low blood sugar (dizziness, sweating, hunger, shaking) and carry a fast-acting source of glucose (like sugar, fruit juice, or honey) for immediate relief.
• Alcohol consumption: Avoid consuming alcohol as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar.
• Medical conditions: Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease (especially severe forms), heart disease, pancreatitis, or low vitamin B12 levels, as this medicine may not be suitable or require dose adjustments. It is not recommended for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Regular monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is crucial, and your doctor may recommend blood tests to check blood cell counts, liver, and kidney function.
• Surgery and medical procedures: Inform your doctor if you have an upcoming surgery or diagnostic procedures involving contrast media, as the medication may need to be stopped a few days prior.
• Sun sensitivity: This medicine can increase skin sensitivity to the sun; use sunscreen.
• Never stop abruptly: Do not stop taking SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 without consulting your doctor, as it can lead to a rise in blood sugar levels and an increased risk of complications.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2, 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 make up for a missed one.

How should SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 be stored?

Store SWITGLIM MV 1/0.2 in a cool and dry place, protected from light and moisture, at a temperature not exceeding 30°C (below 25°C is also mentioned). Keep it out of sight and reach of children.