Alsita M 50 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

ALSITA M 50 MG TABLET

ALSITA M 50 MG TABLET is a prescription medication manufactured by Alkem Laboratories Ltd., used for the effective management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Composition

Each tablet contains Sitagliptin 50 mg and Metformin (typically 500 mg, though strengths may vary). Sitagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, and Metformin belongs to the biguanide class of antidiabetic drugs.

Uses

ALSITA M is prescribed to improve blood sugar control in adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, particularly when diet and exercise alone are insufficient. It works by increasing insulin release after meals, decreasing glucagon secretion, reducing glucose production by the liver, and enhancing the body's sensitivity to insulin. This combined action helps lower both fasting and post-meal blood glucose levels, preventing serious diabetes complications.

Dosage and Administration

ALSITA M is typically taken once or twice daily, usually with meals, to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, split, or chewed. Consistent timing of medication intake is important for stable blood sugar control. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose.

Side Effects

• Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort/pain, headache, upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis (cold symptoms), altered taste, and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially when taken with other diabetes medications.
• Serious Side Effects (Rare): Lactic acidosis (symptoms include muscle pain, dizziness, fatigue, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain), Vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use, and severe allergic reactions.

Precautions

ALSITA M is not indicated for Type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Patients with severe kidney, liver, or heart disease should consult their doctor before use. Excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided due to an increased risk of lactic acidosis. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek medical advice. Interactions may occur with certain medications, including ranolazine, vandetanib, dolutegravir, cimetidine, insulin, or sulfonylureas. Regular monitoring of blood sugar and kidney function is essential during treatment. Do not discontinue this medicine without consulting a healthcare professional.

Storage

Store ALSITA M 50 MG TABLET at a controlled room temperature, typically between 20-25°C or below 30°C. Keep the medicine in its original packaging, tightly closed, and protect it from excessive moisture, out of the reach and sight of children.

Here are some frequently asked questions about ALSITA M 50 MG TABLET:

What is Alsita M 50 MG Tablet used for?

Alsita M 50 MG Tablet is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It helps control high blood sugar levels when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise. This medication aims to prevent serious diabetes complications such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, heart attacks, and strokes.

How does Alsita M 50 MG Tablet work?

Alsita M 50 MG Tablet is a combination medicine containing Sitagliptin (50 mg) and Metformin (500 mg). Sitagliptin, a DPP-4 inhibitor, increases the production of insulin by the pancreas and decreases the amount of glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar) in a glucose-dependent manner. Metformin, a biguanide, works by reducing glucose production in the liver, decreasing glucose absorption from the intestines, and enhancing the body's sensitivity to insulin. Together, these actions help to achieve better blood sugar control.

What is the usual dosage for Alsita M 50 MG Tablet?

The dosage of Alsita M 50 MG Tablet is determined by your doctor based on your individual condition, blood sugar levels, and how you respond to the medicine. It is typically prescribed to be taken once or twice daily, usually with meals to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. It is crucial to follow your doctor's prescribed dosage and not to exceed it.

What are the possible side effects of Alsita M 50 MG Tablet?

Common side effects include upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis (common cold symptoms), headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, and decreased appetite. Rarely, more serious side effects can occur, such as lactic acidosis (a serious metabolic complication), acute pancreatitis, severe kidney problems, and severe allergic reactions. Long-term use may also lead to vitamin B12 deficiency.

Is Alsita M 50 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Caution is advised when taking Alsita M 50 MG Tablet during pregnancy, and it is generally not recommended for breastfeeding women. Sitagliptin is excreted in human milk, and metformin is excreted in small amounts. You should consult your doctor to discuss the potential risks and benefits if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Can Alsita M 50 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

Alsita M 50 MG Tablet can interact with certain medications. Inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking, including carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., topiramate, acetazolamide), medicines that reduce metformin clearance (e.g., ranolazine, cimetidine, dolutegravir), insulin, and insulin secretagogues like sulfonylureas. Combining it with insulin or sulfonylureas may increase the risk of low blood sugar.

What precautions should be taken while using Alsita M 50 MG Tablet?

Before starting Alsita M 50 MG Tablet, inform your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or heart disease, pancreatic issues, or a history of excessive alcohol consumption. It is not suitable for individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus or diabetic ketoacidosis. Regular monitoring of kidney function, blood sugar levels, and potentially vitamin B12 levels is recommended during treatment. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Take the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.

What happens if a dose of Alsita M 50 MG Tablet is missed?

If you forget to take a dose of Alsita M 50 MG Tablet, 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 make up for the missed one.

How should Alsita M 50 MG Tablet be stored?

Alsita M 50 MG Tablet should be stored at a controlled room temperature, typically between 20-25°C or below 30°C. It should be protected from excessive moisture and kept in its original packaging. Always ensure the medicine is stored out of the reach and sight of children.