Istamet 50 Mg/1000 Mg Tablet
| Pack Size | Price | Qty | Unit Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 Tablet/s | $60.94 | $2.03 | |
| 60 Tablet/s | $105.47 | $1.76 | |
| 90 Tablet/s | $135.00 | $1.50 |
What is Istamet 50 1000
Istamet 50 1000 is a combination antidiabetic medicine that treats Type 2 Diabetes in adults. Its primary ingredients are Sitagliptin (50 mg) and Metformin Hydrochloride (1000 mg). Sitagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, while Metformin is a biguanide. Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries Limited is the renowned manufacturer of Istamet.
This combination medication effectively manages blood glucose levels through two complementary mechanisms. Common side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances, upper respiratory infections, and headaches. Istamet is contraindicated in patients with severe kidney impairment, metabolic acidosis, or diabetic ketoacidosis.
It should be stored at room temperature in its original container. Temporary discontinuation is required before procedures involving iodinated contrast media or surgery to prevent lactic acidosis, a rare but serious side effect.
What are the benefits of Istamet 50 1000
Istamet 50 1000 combines the benefits of two antidiabetic medications with different mechanisms of action. Sitagliptin inhibits the DPP-4 enzyme, prolonging the action of incretin hormones that cause insulin secretion and reduce glucagon levels when blood glucose is elevated.
Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal glucose absorption, and improves insulin sensitivity.
Benefits include:
- More effective glycemic control than either medication alone.
- Reduced pill burden with two active ingredients in a single tablet.
- Lower risk of hypoglycemia compared to other specific Diabetes treatments.
- Complementary actions that address multiple aspects of Type 2 Diabetes pathophysiology.
- Potential modest weight loss effect due to the Metformin component.
- It may help prevent complications like stroke or heart attack.
How to take Istamet 50 1000
Istamet 50 1000 is a prescription medication that should be taken as per your doctor's instructions. Here are the general guidelines:
- Take Istamet twice daily with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Take at approximately the exact times each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water; do not crush or chew.
- It is taken with food.
- Gradual dose escalation may be recommended to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage, typically one tablet twice daily.
Strengths and substitutes
The strengths and substitutes available for Istamet are:
| $8.50/10 tablets | |
| $6.30/10 tablets |
What are the side effects of Istamet 50 1000
Istamet 50 1000 is generally well-tolerated when properly prescribed. However, it may cause side effects, including:
- Gastrointestinal effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Headache
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Rare but serious: lactic acidosis (symptoms include muscle pain, severe tiredness, difficulty breathing)
These adverse effects diminish over time as your body adjusts to the medication. Gastrointestinal symptoms can be minimized by taking Istamet with food or beginning with a lower dose if recommended by your doctor.
Safety Advice
Istamet should be used with caution in those with liver disease as it may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Regular liver function monitoring is recommended. Istamet is not recommended for patients with severe hepatic impairment or clinical or laboratory evidence of hepatic disease. Consult a doctor before use.
Istamet is contraindicated in patients with moderate to severe kidney impairment. Kidney function should be assessed before treatment and at least annually thereafter. More frequent monitoring is needed in elderly patients or those at risk of renal impairment. Consult a doctor before use.
There are insufficient well-controlled studies of Istamet in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if needed and when benefits justify risks to the fetus. It is not known whether Sitagliptin is excreted in human milk, but Metformin is. See a doctor before use.
Avoid alcohol, grapefruit juice, and other Metformin drugs while on Istamet. Temporarily stop Istamet before iodinated contrast tests. Stay hydrated to reduce the risk of kidney problems and lactic acidosis.
FAQs
When is the best time to take Istamet 50 1000?
Take Istamet with meals, typically with breakfast and dinner. This timing helps reduce gastrointestinal side effects and enhances the effectiveness of the Metformin component, which works better when taken with food.
Can Istamet 50 1000 cause weight gain?
No, unlike some Diabetes medications, Istamet typically does not cause weight gain. The Metformin component may actually contribute to modest weight loss in some patients, while Sitagliptin is generally weight-neutral.
How long does it take for Istamet to lower blood sugar?
You may notice some improvement in blood sugar readings within 1-2 weeks of starting Istamet. However, the full therapeutic effect may take up to 3 months of consistent use, with regular monitoring recommended.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Istamet?
If you miss a dose, take it with food as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, leave the missed Istamet dose and continue your regular schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Is it safe to drive while taking Istamet 50 1000?
Istamet alone does not typically cause hypoglycemia, which could impair driving ability; however, if combined with other Diabetes medications that may cause low blood sugar, monitor your blood glucose before driving and exercise caution.
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