Diamicron MR 60 mg

Description

Indications

Diamicron MR is an oral antidiabetic medication that belongs to the sulfonylurea class. It is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults when lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and weight loss are not sufficient to control blood sugar levels. Diamicron MR helps lower blood sugar by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin, and improving the body’s response to insulin.

Take this medication according to your doctor’s instructions.

Pharmacology

The active ingredient in Diamicron MR, Gliclazide, is a second-generation sulfonylurea that helps reduce blood sugar levels. It works by stimulating insulin release from the pancreas’ beta cells through the facilitation of calcium ion transport. Additionally, it decreases glucose production in the liver. Gliclazide also has potential beneficial effects on blood circulation and hematological function.

Dosage and Administration

Diamicron MR is available in a modified-release tablet form. The recommended dosage should be determined by your doctor based on your blood sugar levels and possibly urine sugar levels. External factors such as weight loss, lifestyle changes, or improved blood sugar control may require dose adjustments.

• Film-coated tablet: The typical starting dose is 40-80 mg per day. Depending on the patient’s response, this dose may be increased up to 320 mg daily, divided into smaller doses. It is recommended to take the tablets before meals.
• Modified-release preparation: The doctor will prescribe a dose based on the individual response to treatment. Usually, the daily dose is one to four tablets (maximum of 120 mg) taken once daily at breakfast. Always take Diamicron MR with water, and do not chew or crush the tablet. A meal should be consumed after taking the tablet.

Combination Therapy: When combined with other antidiabetic medications such as metformin, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, thiazolidinediones, DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, or insulin, your doctor will adjust the dosage of each medication individually.

Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take the next dose as scheduled. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed dose.

Overdose: If you take more than the recommended dose, contact your doctor or the nearest emergency department immediately. Symptoms of overdose include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which can be managed by consuming sugar or sugary drinks. If the patient becomes unconscious, do not administer food or drink and call emergency services immediately.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage.

Interaction

Diamicron MR may interact with various medications, affecting its ability to lower blood sugar:

• Medications that enhance the blood sugar-lowering effects of Diamicron MR: oral antidiabetic agents, insulin, antibiotics (e.g., sulfonamides, clarithromycin), heart and high blood pressure medications (e.g., beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors like captopril), antifungal treatments (e.g., miconazole), and pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen).
• Medications that may reduce Diamicron MR’s effectiveness: CNS disorders treatments (e.g., chlorpromazine), corticosteroids, asthma treatments (e.g., salbutamol), and St. John’s Wort preparations.

Additionally, Diamicron MR may increase the effects of blood-thinning medications such as warfarin.

Consult with your doctor before starting or discontinuing any medications. Inform hospital staff if you are undergoing treatment with Diamicron MR.

Contraindications

Do not take Diamicron MR if you have:

• Allergies to gliclazide, other sulfonylureas, or related substances.
• Type 1 diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes.
• Diabetic ketoacidosis, diabetic pre-coma, or coma.
• Severe liver or kidney disease.
• Active treatment for fungal infections.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Diamicron MR include:

• Hypoglycemia (Low blood sugar): Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, hunger, sweating, and confusion. If untreated, it may progress to drowsiness or loss of consciousness.
• Liver Issues: Symptoms of liver disorders may include yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice). Contact your doctor if these occur.
• Skin Reactions: Rash, itching, or swelling, particularly on the face or throat, can occur. Severe reactions may include blistering or peeling skin.
• Blood Disorders: A decrease in red or white blood cells or platelets can lead to symptoms like prolonged bleeding, bruising, or sore throat.
• Digestive Issues: Abdominal pain, nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Eye Disorders: Short-term visual disturbances due to fluctuating blood sugar levels, especially at the beginning of treatment.

If any of these side effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor immediately.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Diamicron MR is not recommended during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult with your doctor before taking this medication.

Precautions and Warnings

• Follow the prescribed treatment plan, including regular blood sugar monitoring, diet, and exercise. Close monitoring is especially important in the initial weeks of treatment to prevent hypoglycemia.
• Low blood sugar may occur if meals are skipped, during fasting, or increased physical activity. Always carry sugar or glucose tablets to manage symptoms.
• Blood sugar levels may rise in stressful situations or when certain medications are taken concurrently.

Storage Conditions

Store Diamicron MR below 30°C in a cool, dry place, out of the reach of children. Do not use the medicine after the expiration date. Dispose of unused medications through proper disposal methods as advised by your pharmacist.