Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd
Salt Composition
Sitagliptin (50mg) + Metformin (0mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet is a combination of two medicines that control high blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Dosage Form
Tablet
Introduction
Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet is a combination of two medicines that control high blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This helps prevent serious complications of diabetes such as kidney damage and blindness and may reduce your chances of having a heart attack or stroke.
Directions for Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet is to be taken with food.
How it works
Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet is a combination of two medicines: sitagliptin and metformin. Sitagliptin helps your pancreas produce more insulin, facilitate effective use of insulin by the body, and reduce excess sugar that your liver makes. Metformin is a biguanide which lowers glucose production in the liver, delays glucose absorption from intestines and increases the body's sensitivity to insulin. Together, they provide better control of blood sugar.
Quick Tips
You have been prescribed this combination medicine as it can control blood sugar better than metformin alone. Take it with food to lower your chance of having an upset stomach. Take it in addition to regular exercise and healthy diet to lower levels of blood sugar. Chances of weight gain and low blood sugar are lesser as compared to other diabetes medicines. Monitor your blood sugar level regularly while you are taking this medicine.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet?
Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet is a combination of two medicines: Sitagliptin and Metformin. This medicine is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It improves blood glucose levels in adults when taken along with proper diet and regular exercise. Metformin works by lowering the glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity. Sitagliptin inhibits the enzyme DPP4 and increases the release of insulin from the pancreas. This combination is not indicated for patients below 18 years of age.
Can the use of Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency?
Yes, the use of Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet can cause Vitamin B12 deficiency on long-term use. It interferes with the absorption of Vitamin B12 in the stomach. If untreated, it may cause anemia and nerve problems as a result of which the patient can feel tingling sensation and numbness in hands and feet, weakness, urinary problems, change in mental status, and difficulty in maintaining balance (ataxia). To avoid such problems, some researchers suggest an intake of vitamin B12 from outside sources at least once every year.
What are the possible side effects of Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet?
The use of Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet is associated with common side effects like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level), altered taste, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache, and upper respiratory tract infection. Its use can also lead to serious but rare side effects like lactic acidosis. On long-term use, it can also lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency.
Are there any specific conditions in which Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet should not be taken?
The use of Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet should be avoided in patients with known allergy to any of the components or excipients of this medicine. The use of this medicine should also be avoided in patients with severe kidney impairment, liver impairment, congestive heart failure, lactic acidosis, or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Is it safe to take alcohol while I am taking Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet?
No, it is not safe to take alcohol while taking Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet, as it can increase the chances of lactic acidosis.
What are the instructions for storage and disposal of Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet?
Keep this medicine in the container or the pack it came in, tightly closed. Store it according to the instructions mentioned on the pack or label. Dispose of the unused medicine. Make sure it is not consumed by pets, children, and other people.
Can the use of Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet lead to lactic acidosis?
Yes, the use of Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet can lead to lactic acidosis. It is a medical emergency caused by the increased levels of lactic acid in the blood. It is also known as MALA (Metformin-associated lactic acidosis). It is a rare side effect associated with the use of metformin and therefore, it is avoided in patients with underlying kidney disease, old age patients, or who take large amounts of alcohol. Symptoms of lactic acidosis may include muscle pain or weakness, dizziness, tiredness, feeling of cold in arms and legs, difficulty in breathing, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or slow heart rate. If you have these symptoms, stop taking Sitagliptin + Metformin and immediately consult your doctor.
