Azukon M Tablet (10 Tab)

AZUKON M TABLET (10 TAB) by TORRENT PHARMACEUTICALS LTD

Name:

• Brand Name: Azukon M Tablet
• Common Name: Gliclazide and Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets

Composition: Each tablet contains Gliclazide 80 mg and Metformin Hydrochloride 500 mg.

Uses: Azukon M Tablet is prescribed for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. It is typically used when diet, exercise, and weight loss alone have not effectively controlled blood sugar levels. This medication works by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin (Gliclazide) and by reducing glucose production in the liver while improving the body's sensitivity to insulin (Metformin). It helps to control blood sugar levels, thereby reducing the risk of serious diabetic complications such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, heart attack, and stroke.

Dosage and Administration: Azukon M Tablet should be taken orally with food to minimize stomach upset. The dosage is determined by a healthcare professional, but typically ranges from 80 mg to 320 mg of Gliclazide daily, with doses exceeding 160 mg often divided into two equal parts. It is usually taken once or twice daily at the same time each day for optimal results. Do not crush or chew the tablet. It is crucial not to miss doses or stop the medication abruptly without consulting a doctor, even if blood sugar levels appear controlled.

Side Effects:

• Common Side Effects: Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, constipation, altered taste, skin rash, and upper respiratory tract infection.
• Serious Side Effects: Though rare, serious side effects can include lactic acidosis, severe skin reactions, seizures, chest pain, and vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use.

Precautions:

• Contraindications: Azukon M Tablet is contraindicated in patients with known allergy to its components or sulfonylureas, Type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe kidney or liver disease, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and severe heart conditions like congestive heart failure.
• Warnings: Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can increase the risk of hypoglycemia and lactic acidosis. Patients should inform their doctor about all other medications they are taking due to potential drug interactions (e.g., with diuretics, corticosteroids, ACE inhibitors, other antidiabetic agents). Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential. Caution is advised when driving or operating machinery due to the risk of dizziness or hypoglycemia.

Storage: Store Azukon M Tablet in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture, at room temperature (below 30°C or between 10ºC to 25ºC). Keep the medicine out of reach of children.

What is AZUKON M TABLET used for?

AZUKON M TABLET is primarily used to manage Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. It is prescribed when diet, exercise, and weight loss alone are not sufficient to control high blood sugar levels. It helps in controlling blood sugar and preventing severe complications of diabetes, such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, heart attack, and stroke.

How does AZUKON M TABLET work?

AZUKON M TABLET is a combination medication containing Gliclazide and Metformin. Gliclazide, a sulfonylurea, works by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin. Metformin, a biguanide, reduces the amount of glucose produced by the liver, slows down the absorption of glucose from the intestines, and increases the body's sensitivity to insulin. Together, these actions help to lower and control blood sugar levels.

What is the usual dosage of AZUKON M TABLET?

The dosage of AZUKON M TABLET varies, typically ranging from 80 mg to 320 mg daily, as prescribed by your doctor. If a dose is more than 160 mg, it is usually divided into two equal parts. It is generally recommended to take this medicine with food, often twice daily, or up to three times a day, at the same time each day for best results. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose based on your condition and blood sugar levels.

What are the possible side effects of AZUKON M TABLET?

Common side effects can include hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain or cramps, headache, dizziness, and constipation. Some individuals might also experience increased skin sensitivity. Less common but serious side effects can include severe allergic reactions, chest pain, and severe skin reactions like peeling and blistering. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, consult your doctor.

Is AZUKON M TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, AZUKON M TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy as it may pose a risk to the developing baby. Similarly, it is contraindicated during breastfeeding as its components may pass into breast milk and could adversely affect the nursing infant. Always consult your doctor for safer alternatives if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can AZUKON M TABLET be taken with other medications?

AZUKON M TABLET can interact with various other medications. Inform your doctor about all prescription, non-prescription, herbal medicines, and dietary supplements you are taking. Specific interactions can occur with other antidiabetic agents (like insulin), diuretics (e.g., furosemide), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), and Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (e.g., ramipril, lisinopril). These interactions may increase or decrease the blood sugar-lowering effect of AZUKON M TABLET.

What precautions should be taken while using AZUKON M TABLET?

It is important to avoid alcohol consumption while taking AZUKON M TABLET, as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and a serious condition called lactic acidosis. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential. This medicine is not suitable for individuals with Type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or severe kidney or liver disease. Caution should also be exercised in patients with heart disease.

What happens if a dose of AZUKON M 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 the missed one, as this can cause a drastic and dangerous fall in blood glucose levels.

How should AZUKON M TABLET be stored?

AZUKON M TABLET should be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight and moisture, typically at room temperature below 30°C. Keep the medicine out of sight and reach of children to prevent accidental consumption.