Gluconorm Sr 850 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET (10 TAB) by LUPIN LTD.

Gluconorm SR 850 mg Tablet is a medication prescribed primarily for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Manufactured by Lupin Ltd., this sustained-release (SR) formulation helps provide a consistent therapeutic effect.

• Composition

  • Active Ingredient: Metformin Hydrochloride 850 mg.
  • Gluconorm SR 850 mg Tablet belongs to the biguanide class of anti-diabetic medicines.

• Uses

  • Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: It effectively controls blood sugar levels by reducing glucose production in the liver, delaying glucose absorption from the intestines, and increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin. This action helps prevent serious diabetes-related complications such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve issues, heart attack, and stroke.
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): It is also used to treat PCOS in women by improving insulin response, lowering insulin levels, and reducing excess male hormone production, which helps regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms.

• Dosage and Administration

  • Always take Gluconorm SR 850 mg Tablet exactly as directed by your doctor.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, preferably with or after meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
  • For optimal benefit, take it regularly at the same time each day.
  • Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if your blood sugar levels appear normal.

• Side Effects

  • Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain or discomfort, loss of appetite, and a metallic taste. These effects are usually mild and may resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. Taking the tablet with meals can help reduce these symptoms.
  • Serious Side Effects (Rare):
    • Lactic Acidosis: A rare but serious condition indicated by deep or rapid breathing, persistent nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, muscle cramps, reduced body temperature, and severe tiredness.
    • Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Prolonged use may lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, potentially causing anemia, fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, or headache.
    • Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): Unlikely when Gluconorm SR 850 mg Tablet is taken alone but can occur if combined with other anti-diabetic medications, alcohol, or skipped meals.

• Precautions

  • Inform your doctor if you have severe kidney disease, diabetic ketoacidosis, metabolic acidosis, severe infections, dehydration, or heart problems, as these are contraindications or require caution.
  • Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while on this medication, as it increases the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia.
  • Use with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and only if prescribed by a doctor.
  • Regular monitoring of kidney function is advised, especially for elderly patients or those with kidney or liver conditions.
  • Your ability to drive or operate machinery may be affected if your blood sugar is too low or too high.
  • Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise regimen as part of your diabetes management plan.

• Storage

  • Store Gluconorm SR 850 mg Tablet in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Keep it out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Typically, store at temperatures between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.

What is GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET used for?

GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults when diet and exercise alone are not sufficient to control blood sugar levels. It is also used to treat Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women.

How does GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET work?

This medicine contains Metformin, which belongs to a class of drugs called biguanides. It works by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, slowing down the absorption of glucose from the intestines, and increasing your body's sensitivity to insulin. This multi-pronged action helps to lower blood sugar levels.

What is the usual dosage for GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET?

GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is a sustained-release (SR) formulation, designed to release the medication gradually over an extended period. You should swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, typically with or after a meal, to minimize digestive side effects. Do not crush or chew the tablet. The dosage can vary based on your condition and response to the medicine.

What are the possible side effects of GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET?

Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or abdominal discomfort, weakness, fatigue, a metallic taste in the mouth, and loss of appetite. These are usually mild and temporary, often resolving with continued use or by taking the medication with meals.

A serious but rare side effect is lactic acidosis, which is an accumulation of lactic acid in the blood. Symptoms can include vomiting, stomach ache, muscle cramps, severe tiredness, difficulty breathing, and a reduced body temperature and heartbeat. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can also occur, particularly if taken with other antidiabetic medications, alcohol, or if meals are skipped.

Is GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, but it is important to consult your doctor before taking it. Your doctor can help determine a pregnancy-specific treatment plan.

Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding mothers can generally use GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET safely, as it passes into breast milk in tiny amounts and has not been linked with side effects in breastfed babies. However, it is still advisable to discuss it with your doctor.

Can GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET can interact with certain other medications. Taking it with other antidiabetic medicines may increase the risk of low blood sugar. Medicines like amiloride, digoxin, and morphine can reduce the elimination of metformin from your body. If you are undergoing diagnostic procedures involving iodine-containing contrast media, your doctor may advise you to stop taking metformin temporarily due to an increased risk of acute kidney injury and lactic acidosis. It can also interact with certain pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen), asthma medications (e.g., salbutamol), diuretics (e.g., furosemide), and some antihypertensives. Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are currently taking.

What precautions should be taken while taking GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET?

It is crucial not to stop taking GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to a sudden rise in blood sugar levels. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it significantly increases the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia.

Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, as dose adjustments may be necessary, and it is not recommended for severe kidney disease. Regular monitoring of kidney function is important. This medicine is not for type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or metabolic acidosis. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen as advised by your doctor. If you experience symptoms of very high or low blood sugar, your ability to drive or operate machinery may be affected.

What happens if a dose of GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, preferably with food. 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 the missed one. If you skip a meal, also skip your mealtime dose of this medication.

How should GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET be stored?

Store GLUCONORM SR 850 MG TABLET at room temperature, ideally between 20°C and 25°C, and keep it away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Ensure the medicine is kept out of reach of children and pets. Always check the expiry date on the package and do not use the medicine if it has expired.