Dibeta Sr 500 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

DIBETA SR 500 MG Tablet

DIBETA SR 500 MG Tablet, manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is an extended-release oral anti-diabetic medication used to manage blood sugar levels.

Composition

The active ingredient in DIBETA SR 500 MG Tablet is Metformin Hydrochloride, provided in a 500 mg sustained-release formulation.

Uses

DIBETA SR 500 MG Tablet is primarily prescribed for:

• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: It is used when diet and exercise alone are insufficient to control blood glucose levels. Metformin works by decreasing glucose production in the liver, improving the body's response to insulin, and reducing glucose absorption from the intestines. This helps to control both fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): In women with PCOS, it helps restore hormonal balance, regulate menstrual cycles, and alleviate symptoms such as acne and excessive hair growth.
• The medicine may also contribute to modest weight management and helps prevent long-term complications of diabetes like kidney damage, blindness, nerve issues, and cardiovascular events.

Dosage and Administration

• DIBETA SR 500 MG Tablet should be taken orally with water, as directed by a healthcare professional.
• The tablet must be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, chewed, or broken, as this can affect its sustained-release mechanism.
• It is typically taken once daily with the evening meal to minimize potential gastrointestinal side effects.
• The usual starting dose is 500 mg once daily. The dose may be gradually increased by the doctor based on blood sugar control, generally not exceeding 2000 mg per day.
• Consistent adherence to the prescribed dosage and taking the medicine at a fixed time each day is crucial for optimal results.

Side Effects

Common side effects often resolve over time and may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain or discomfort
• Gas, indigestion, loss of appetite
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Headache, weakness, or feeling unusually tired

Serious side effects, though rare, require immediate medical attention:

• Lactic Acidosis: Symptoms include severe muscle pain, stomach pain, rapid or difficult breathing, unusual tiredness, dizziness, severe drowsiness, chills, or blue/cold skin.
• Low Vitamin B12 Levels: Long-term use can lead to symptoms like pain, tingling, or numbness in hands or feet, muscle weakness, dizziness, confusion, or anemia.
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): More likely when taken with other anti-diabetic drugs or alcohol. Symptoms include shakiness, sweating, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and confusion.
• Allergic reactions: Rash, itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Precautions

• Contraindications: Do not take DIBETA SR 500 MG Tablet if you are allergic to Metformin or any other ingredients, or if you have severe kidney or liver disease, diabetic ketoacidosis, metabolic acidosis, uncontrolled diabetes, serious heart problems, or severe infections.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid excessive alcohol as it significantly increases the risk of lactic acidosis and low blood sugar.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. A doctor may advise switching to insulin during pregnancy. Metformin passes into breast milk in small amounts.
• Dehydration: Stay well-hydrated, especially if experiencing fever, infection, vomiting, or diarrhea, as dehydration can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Medical Procedures: Inform your doctor before any surgery or imaging scans involving iodine-containing contrast agents, as you may need to temporarily stop the medication.
• Drug Interactions: Discuss all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal preparations, with your doctor. DIBETA SR 500 MG Tablet can interact with various medications, including certain diuretics, pain relievers, asthma medications, other anti-diabetic drugs, and some heart or blood pressure medications.
• Vitamin B12: Long-term Metformin therapy may lead to reduced Vitamin B12 absorption. Regular monitoring of B12 levels and potential supplementation may be advised.
• Elderly Patients: Use with caution in elderly patients due to a potentially higher risk of kidney issues, lactic acidosis, or hypoglycemia.
• PCOS: In women with PCOS, Metformin may induce ovulation, increasing the chance of pregnancy. Discuss contraception options with your doctor.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.
• Maintain storage at room temperature, ideally between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), though it can tolerate temperatures between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) for short periods.

DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET contains Metformin Hydrochloride and is primarily used to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is a sustained-release formulation, meaning the medication is released slowly over an extended period.

Here are some frequently asked questions about DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET:

What is DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET used for?

DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps control high blood sugar levels and prevents serious complications associated with diabetes, such as kidney damage, nerve damage, and eye damage. It is also used to manage Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women.

How does DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET work?

This medicine works by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by your liver and slowing down the absorption of glucose from your intestines into your bloodstream. It also improves your body's sensitivity to insulin, helping your cells absorb and utilize glucose more effectively.

What is the usual dosage for DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET?

The typical starting dose for DIBETA SR is 500 mg once daily, usually with the evening meal. Your doctor may gradually increase the dose to achieve optimal blood sugar control, with a maximum recommended daily dose usually around 2000 mg. It is crucial to swallow the tablet whole with water and not to crush, chew, or break it. Taking it with meals helps minimize gastrointestinal side effects.

What are the possible side effects of DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET?

Common side effects can include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort or pain, a metallic taste in the mouth, headache, weakness, indigestion, and loss of appetite. These usually resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. A rare but serious side effect is lactic acidosis, which requires immediate medical attention and can present with symptoms like muscle pain, unusual tiredness, and trouble breathing. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can occur, especially when DIBETA SR is taken with other diabetes medications or alcohol. Long-term use may also lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Is DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

DIBETA SR should be used with caution during pregnancy, and it is generally not recommended unless specifically prescribed by your doctor. Alternative treatments like insulin therapy might be considered during pregnancy. For breastfeeding mothers, Metformin, the active ingredient, passes into breast milk in small amounts. It should only be used if prescribed by your doctor, and in some cases, breastfeeding may need to be discontinued.

Can DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

DIBETA SR can interact with certain other medications. Taking it with insulin or sulfonylureas (like glimepiride or glyburide) can increase the risk of low blood sugar. Diuretics (water pills) can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and kidney problems when taken with DIBETA SR. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal preparations you are taking, especially before surgery or medical procedures.

What precautions should be taken while taking DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET?

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking DIBETA SR, as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and low blood sugar. Regular monitoring of your blood sugar levels and kidney function is essential during treatment. This medicine is generally not recommended if you have severe kidney or liver disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or certain heart problems. Staying well-hydrated is also important.

What happens if a dose of DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of DIBETA SR, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

How should DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET be stored?

Store DIBETA SR 500 MG TABLET in a tightly closed container in a cool and dry place. Keep it away from light and moisture, and always out of the reach of children. Ensure you use the medication before its expiry date.