Voglitab-m 0.3 Tablet

VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET

VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET is a medication manufactured by Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd., primarily used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

• Composition Each tablet contains a combination of two active ingredients:

  • Metformin (500 mg)
  • Voglibose (0.3 mg)

• Uses VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET is prescribed for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus to manage blood sugar levels. It is particularly effective in controlling post-meal blood sugar spikes (postprandial hyperglycemia) by delaying carbohydrate absorption. This medication helps improve overall glycemic control, maintain steady blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of long-term complications associated with diabetes, such as kidney damage, eye damage, nerve problems, and loss of limbs. It may also reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in individuals with type 2 diabetes and existing cardiovascular conditions. It is often used as a second-line therapy when diet, exercise, and single-agent therapy are insufficient.

• Dosage and Administration This medicine should be taken orally with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects and optimize its effectiveness. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or split it. It is generally advised to take it regularly at the same time each day. The specific dose and duration will be determined by a doctor based on the individual's health condition and response to the medicine, typically 3 times daily. Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.

• Side Effects Common Side Effects:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Flatulence (gas)
  • Indigestion (dyspepsia)
  • Changes in taste
  • Weakness
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite

  Serious Side Effects (Rare):

  • Lactic acidosis (symptoms include vomiting, stomach pain, decreased heartbeat, difficulty breathing, muscle cramps, severe tiredness, or reduced body temperature). Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
  • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially when used with other anti-diabetic medicines, alcohol, or if meals are delayed or missed.
  • Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver, with symptoms like tiredness, loss of appetite, weight loss, with or without yellowing of skin or eyes).

• Precautions

  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless absolutely necessary and advised by a doctor, due to potential harmful effects.
  • Organ Impairment: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems. Dose adjustments may be necessary, and regular monitoring of organ function is recommended. Avoid use in severe kidney disease, liver disease, or heart failure.
  • Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
  • Allergies: Do not take if allergic to metformin, voglibose, or any other ingredients.
  • Other Conditions: Inform your doctor about any pre-existing conditions such as acute metabolic acidosis, severe infections, trauma, gastrointestinal obstruction, or diabetic pre-coma.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are taking, as interactions can occur with drugs like cationic medicines (e.g., amiloride, digoxin), digestive enzyme preparations, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., topiramate), anti-angina medicines (e.g., ranolazine), certain anti-cancer medications, and some pain relievers, asthma medicines, and diuretics.
  • Vitamin B12: Long-term use may reduce vitamin B12 absorption; annual screening of B12 levels is recommended.

• Storage Store VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET in a cool, dry place. Maintain an ideal room temperature, generally not exceeding 30°C (or below 25°C). Protect the tablets from direct sunlight, light, and moisture to maintain efficacy. Always keep this medication out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Ensure to use the product before its expiry date.

What is VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET used for?

VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It helps control high blood sugar levels, especially by reducing post-meal glucose spikes, and aims to improve overall glycemic control. This medication is often prescribed when diet, exercise, and a single anti-diabetic medicine are not sufficient to achieve adequate blood sugar control, thereby helping to reduce the risk of long-term complications associated with diabetes, such as kidney damage, eye damage, and nerve problems.

How does VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET work?

VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET is a combination medication containing two active ingredients: Voglibose (0.3 mg) and Metformin (500 mg). Voglibose is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that slows down the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simple sugars in the intestines. This action reduces and delays the absorption of glucose after meals, thereby lowering post-meal blood sugar levels. Metformin, a biguanide, works by decreasing glucose production in the liver and increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin, allowing it to use sugar more effectively. Together, these components help to regulate both fasting and post-meal blood sugar levels.

What is the usual dosage of VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET?

VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET should be taken as directed by your doctor. It is typically taken orally with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects and optimize its efficacy. The doctor will determine the appropriate dose and duration based on your individual health condition, how you respond to the medicine, and your blood sugar levels. It is crucial to swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, without crushing, chewing, or splitting it. Do not alter the prescribed dosage or stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET?

Common side effects of VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, flatulence (gas), indigestion, headache, dizziness, changes in taste, and loss of appetite. Though rare, serious side effects can occur, such as lactic acidosis, which is an excess of lactic acid in the blood. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include deep or rapid breathing, persistent nausea, vomiting or stomach pain, muscle cramps, and general weakness. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any severe or worsening side effects.

Is VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary and prescribed by a doctor, as there is limited information on its safety in pregnant women. Animal studies have shown potential harmful effects on the developing baby. Similarly, it is probably unsafe to use VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET while breastfeeding, as it is uncertain if the ingredients pass into breast milk and could potentially harm the baby. Consult your doctor for advice on alternative treatment options if you are breastfeeding.

Can it be taken with other medications?

VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET may interact with other medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all ongoing medications, supplements, or herbal preparations you are taking. For example, certain carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (like topiramate, zonisamide) and anti-angina medicines (like ranolazine) may interact, potentially increasing the risk of lactic acidosis or affecting blood glucose levels. Medicines used to reduce pain and swelling (like ibuprofen, celecoxib) and certain diuretics (like furosemide) can also interact. If taken with other anti-diabetic medicines like insulin or sulfonylureas, it can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

What precautions should be taken?

Several precautions should be taken while using VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET:

• Alcohol: Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol as it can lower blood sugar and increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Kidney and Liver Impairment: Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease. Regular monitoring of kidney function is advised, and it is not recommended for severe renal or hepatic impairment.
• Allergies: Do not take if you are allergic to metformin, voglibose, or any other ingredient in the tablet.
• Hypoglycemia: Be aware of symptoms of low blood sugar (dizziness, weakness, rapid heartbeat, sweating, confusion) especially if taking with other anti-diabetic medications. Carry a sugary snack or juice.
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis: It is contraindicated in people with pre-existing medical conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET, 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.

How should it be stored?

VOGLITAB-M 0.3 TABLET should be stored in a cool, dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Maintain an ideal room temperature not exceeding 30°C. Always keep this medication out of the sight and reach of children. Ensure you use the product before its expiry date.