Description
Diamicron MR 60 mg Tablet
Indications Diamicron MR is an oral antidiabetic medication belonging to the sulfonylurea class. It is prescribed for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus when diet, exercise, and weight management alone are insufficient to maintain optimal blood sugar levels.
Pharmacology Gliclazide, the active ingredient in Diamicron MR, is a second-generation sulfonylurea that lowers blood sugar by stimulating insulin release from pancreatic beta cells. It enhances calcium ion transport across these cells and reduces hepatic glucose production, thereby improving blood glucose control.
Dosage & Administration
- Film-Coated Tablet: The initial dose typically ranges from 40 mg to 80 mg daily. If necessary, the dosage can be gradually increased up to a maximum of 320 mg per day, divided into multiple doses. The tablet should be taken before meals. Gliclazide is contraindicated in juvenile-onset diabetes and is not recommended for children.
- Modified Release (MR) Tablet: The usual dose is one to four tablets (maximum 120 mg) taken once daily at breakfast. The dosage is determined by the physician based on blood sugar levels. The tablet must be swallowed whole with a glass of water and should not be chewed or crushed. It is essential to consume a meal after taking the medication.
- If combination therapy with metformin, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, thiazolidinediones, DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, or insulin is required, the physician will adjust the dose accordingly.
- In case of overdose, symptoms of hypoglycemia may occur. Immediate intake of sugar (such as glucose tablets or sugary drinks) is advised, followed by a substantial meal. If the patient loses consciousness, seek emergency medical attention.
- If a dose is missed, the next scheduled dose should be taken at the usual time. A double dose should not be taken to compensate for a missed dose.
- Discontinuation of Diamicron MR should only be done under medical supervision to prevent hyperglycemia and associated complications.
Drug Interactions
- Certain medications may enhance the blood sugar-lowering effect of Diamicron MR, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. These include other antidiabetic agents, certain antibiotics (e.g., sulfonamides, clarithromycin), antihypertensive medications (e.g., beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors), antifungal drugs (e.g., fluconazole, miconazole), H2-receptor antagonists, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, phenylbutazone).
- Some drugs may reduce the effectiveness of Diamicron MR, leading to hyperglycemia. These include corticosteroids, diuretics, certain asthma medications, chlorpromazine, danazol, and St. John’s Wort.
- Blood sugar fluctuations may occur if fluoroquinolone antibiotics are taken alongside Diamicron MR, particularly in elderly patients.
- Gliclazide may enhance the effects of anticoagulants such as warfarin, necessitating medical consultation before starting new medications.
- Alcohol consumption is not advised as it may unpredictably affect blood sugar control.
Contraindications Diamicron MR should not be used in patients who:
- Are allergic to gliclazide or other sulfonylureas
- Have type 1 diabetes
- Have diabetic ketoacidosis, pre-coma, or coma
- Suffer from severe kidney or liver disease
- Are taking antifungal medications
- Are breastfeeding
Side Effects
- Common: Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can cause symptoms such as dizziness, hunger, sweating, and confusion. Severe cases may lead to loss of consciousness or coma.
- Liver Disorders: Rare cases of liver dysfunction, including jaundice, have been reported. Discontinuation of the drug usually resolves symptoms.
- Skin Reactions: Rash, itching, redness, hives, and, in severe cases, angioedema and blistering may occur.
- Blood Disorders: A decrease in platelets, red or white blood cells, leading to symptoms like bruising, prolonged bleeding, fever, and sore throat.
- Digestive Issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and indigestion, which may improve when taken with food.
- Eye Effects: Temporary vision disturbances due to fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
Pregnancy & Lactation Gliclazide is not recommended during pregnancy. If pregnancy is planned or confirmed, consult a doctor for alternative treatment. This medication should not be used during breastfeeding.
Precautions & Warnings
- Follow the prescribed treatment plan, including diet and exercise, to maintain blood sugar control.
- Regular blood sugar monitoring is essential, especially in the first few weeks of treatment.
- Increased risk of hypoglycemia exists in cases of irregular meals, fasting, malnutrition, excessive physical activity, alcohol consumption, hormonal imbalances, or renal and hepatic impairment.
- Carry glucose tablets or sugar cubes to manage sudden hypoglycemia.
- In cases of stress, surgery, or infections, insulin therapy may be temporarily required.
- Patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency should consult their doctor before use.
- Diamicron MR is not suitable for children due to insufficient data on safety and efficacy.
Storage Conditions
- Store below 30°C and keep away from moisture and direct sunlight.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not use after the expiry date mentioned on the packaging.
- Dispose of unused medicine properly to protect the environment.
General Instructions
- Take Diamicron MR as prescribed by your doctor, ideally 30 minutes before breakfast.
- Regularly monitor blood sugar levels.
- Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine.
- Always keep a source of sugar nearby to treat hypoglycemia.
- Consult a doctor before discontinuing the medication.
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Additional information
Weight | 0.15 g |
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