Medications

Amaryl M 1 mg+500 mgThis tablet is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients- In case that the monotherapy with glimepiride or metformin does not result in adequate glycemic control. Replacement of combination therapy of glimepiride and metformin. Theropeutic ClassCombination Oral hypoglycemic preparationsPharmacologyGlimepiride, a member of the sulfonylurea class, and Rosiglitazone maleate, a member of the thiazolidinedione class. The primary mechanism of action of Glimepiride in lowering blood glucose appears to be dependent on stimulating the release of insulin from functioning pancreatic beta-cells. In addition, extrapancreatic effects may also play a role in the activity of sulfonylureas such as Glimepiride. This is supported by both preclinical and clinical studies demonstrating that Glimepiride administration can lead to increased sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin.Metformin is an antihyperglycemic agent which improves glucose tolerance in patients with type 2 diabetes, lowering both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production by inhibiting gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, and stimulates intracellular glycogen synthesis by acting on glycogen synthase. In muscle, it increases insulin sensitivity, improving peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. Metformin also delays intestinal glucose absorption. Metformin increases the transport capacity of all types of membrane glucose transporters (GLUTs) known to date.Dosage & Administration of Amaryl M 1 mg+500 mgThis combination should be taken once or twice a day during a meal. Maximum single dose of metformin is 1000 mg. Maximum daily dose is 8 mg for glimepiride and 2 000 mg for metformin. Only for a small number of patients more effective daily dose is more than 6 mg of glimepiride. Initial dose of this combination should not exceed daily dose of glimepiride and metformin already being taken by a patient in order to avoid hypoglycemia.Typically the dose of medicine this combination should be determined by the target glucose concentration in blood. It is necessary to take the lowest dose that would be sufficient to achieve the desired metabolic control. During treatment with medicine this combination, concentration of glucose in blood should be regularly determined. In addition, regular control of percentage of glycated hemoglobin is also recommended. Incorrect administration of the medicine, such as skipping of the next dose, should never be replenished by subsequent administration of higher doses.Dosage of Amaryl M 1 mg+500 mg The dosage of this tablet is governed by the desired blood glucose level. The dosage of this tablet must be the lowest which is sufficient to achieve the desired metabolic control. During treatment with this tablet glucose levels in blood and urine must be measured regularly. Mistakes, e.g. forgetting to take a dose, must never be corrected by subsequently taking a larger dose. As an improvement in control of diabetes is, in itself, associated with higher insulin sensitivity, glimepiride requirements may fall as treatment proceeds. To avoid hypoglycaemia timely dose reduction or cessation of this tablet therapy must therefore be considered. The highest recommended dose per day should be 8 mg of glimepiride and 2000 mg of metformin. In order to avoid hypoglycaemia the starting dose of this tablet should not exceed the daily doses of glimepiride or metformin already being taken. When switching from combination therapy of glimepiride plus metformin as separate tablets, this combination should be administered on the basis of dosage currently being taken. Administration of Amaryl M 1 mg+500 mgThis tablet must be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed.Interaction of Amaryl M 1 mg+500 mgFor Glimepiride: Glimepiride is metabolized by cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9). This should be taken into account when glimepiride is coadministered with inducers (e.g. rifampicin) or inhibitors (e.g. fuconazole) of CYP 2C9. Potentiation of the blood-glucose-lowering efect and, thus, in some instances hypoglycaemia may occur when one of the following drugs is taken, for example: insulin and other, oral antidiabetics; ACE inhibitors; anabolic steroids and male sex hormones; chloramphenicol; coumarin derivatives; cyclophosphamide; disopyramide; fenfuramine; fenyramidol; fbrates; fuoxetine; guanethidine; ifosfamide; MAO inhibitors; miconazole; fuconazole; para-aminosalicylic acid; pentoxifylline (high dose parenteral); phenylbutazone; azapropazone; oxyphenbutazone; probenecid; quinolones; salicylates; sulfnpyrazone; clarithromycin; sulfonamide antibiotics; tetracyclines; tritoqualine; trofosfamide. Weakening of the blood-glucose-lowering efect and, thus raised blood glucose levels may occur when one of the following drugs is taken, for example: acetazolamide; barbiturates; corticosteroids; diazoxide; diuretics; epinephrine (adrenaline) and other sympathomimetic agents; glucagon; laxatives (after protracted use); nicotinic acid (in high doses); oestrogens and progestogens; phenothiazines; phenytoin; rifampicin; thyroid hormones. H2 receptor antagonists, beta-blockers, clonidine and reserpine may lead to either potentiation or weakening of the blood-glucose-lowering efect. Under the infuence of sympatholytic drugs such as beta-blockers, clonidine, guanethidine and reserpine, the signs of adrenergic counter-regulation to hypoglycaemia may be reduced or absent. Both acute and chronic alcohol intake may potentiate or weaken the blood-glucose-lowering action of glimepiride in an unpredictable fashion. The efect of coumarin derivatives may be potentiated or weakened. Bile acid sequestrant: Colesevelam binds to glimepiride and reduces glimepiride absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. Glimepiride should be administered at least 4 hours prior to colesevelam. For Metformin: Concomitant use not recommended: Alcohol: Alcohol intoxication is associated with an increased risk of lactic acidosis, particularly in case of fasting, malnutrition or hepatic insufciency. Avoid consumption of alcohol and alcohol-containing medications Iodinated contrast agents: Metformin must be discontinued prior to, or at the time of the imaging procedure and not restarted until at least 48 hours after, provided that renal function has been re-evaluated and found to be stable. Combinations requiring precautions for use: Some medicinal products can adversely afect renal function which may increase the risk of lactic Acidosis. When starting or using such products in combination with metformin, close monitoring of renal function is necessary. Glucocorticoids, beta-2-agonists, and diuretics have intrinsic hyperglycemic activity. Inform the patient and perform more frequent blood glucose monitoring. ACE-inhibitors may decrease the blood glucose levels. Metformin may decrease the anticoagulant efect of phenprocoumon. Therefore, a close monitoring of the INR is recommended. Levothyroxine can reduce the hypoglycemic efect of metformin. Monitoring of blood glucose levels is recommended, especially when thyroid hormone therapy is initiated or stopped, and the dosage of metformin must be adjusted if necessary. Organic cation transporters (OCT): Metformin is a substrate of both transporters OCT1 and OCT2. Co-administration of metformin with: Inhibitors of OCT1 (such as verapamil) may reduce efcacy of metformin. Inducers of OCT1 (such as rifampicin) may increase gastrointestinal absorption and efcacy of metformin. Inhibitors of OCT2 (such as cimetidine, dolutegravir, ranolazine, trimethoprime, vandetanib, isavuconazole) may decrease the renal elimination of metformin and thus lead to an increase in metformin plasma concentration. Inhibitors of both OCT1 and OCT2 (such as crizotinib, olaparib) may alter efcacy and renal elimination of metformin. Caution is therefore advised, especially in patients with renal impairment, when these drugs are coadministered with metformin, as metformin plasma concentration may increase. If needed, dose adjustment of metformin may be considered as OCT inhibitors/inducers may alter the efcacy of metformin.ContraindicationsFor Glimepiride- In patients hypersensitive to glimepiride, metformin, other sulfonylureas, other sulfonamides, or any of the excipients of Amaryl M. In pregnant women. In breastfeeding women. No experience has been gained concerning the use of glimepiride in patients with severe impairment of liver function and in dialysis patients. In patients with severe impairment of hepatic function, change-over to insulin is indicated, not least to achieve optimal metabolic control.For Metformin- Hypersensitivity to metformin or any of the excipients. Any type of acute metabolic acidosis such as lactic acidosis Diabetic ketoacidosis, diabetic pre-coma. Severe Renal failure or renal disfunction (e.g., serum creatine levels >135 ?mol/L in males and >110 ?mol/L in females), GFR 10%) are very common. These occur most frequently during initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. Metallic taste (3%) is common Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with decrease of serum levels has been observed in patients treated long-term with metformin and appears generally to be without clinical signifcance (<0.01%). However, Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 defciency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known). (frequency unknown) Lactic acidosis (0.03 cases/1000 patient-years) is very rare Hemolytic anemia (frequency unknown) Reduction of thyrotropin level in patients with hypothyroidism (frequency unknown) Hypomagnesemia in the context of diarrhea (frequency unknown) Encephalopathy (frequency unknown) Photosensitivity (frequency unknown) Hepatobiliary disorders: Reports of liver function tests abnormalities and hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation Pregnancy & LactationPregnancy: Administration of the drug this combination?is contraindicated during pregnancy because of the possible adverse effects on intrauterine fetal development. Pregnant women and women planning pregnancy should notify the doctor about this. During pregnancy and when planning, women with impaired glucose metabolism, which cannot be corrected with diet and physical activity, must receive insulin therapy in order to maintain normal blood concentrations of blood glucose level.Breast-feeding: In order to avoid transfer of medicine to the child?s body through breast milk, women should not take this medicine in breastfeeding period. In case of need for hypoglycemic therapy, the patient must be transferred to the insulin treatment, otherwise she must discontinue breastfeeding.Precautions & WarningsFor Glimepiride: In the initial weeks of treatment, the risk of hypoglycemia may be increased and necessitates especially careful monitoring. If risk factors for hypoglycemia are present, it may be necessary to adjust the dosage of glimepiride or the entire therapy. This also applies whenever illness occurs during therapy or the patient's life-style changes. It is known from other sulfonylureas that, despite initially successful countermeasures, hypoglycaemia may recur. Patients must, therefore, remain under close observation. Severe hypoglycaemia further requires immediate treatment and follow-up by a physician and, in some circumstances, in-patient hospital care. Treatment of patients with G6PD-defciency with sulfonylurea agents can lead to hemolytic anaemia. Since glimepiride belongs to the class of sulfonylurea agents, caution should be used in patients with G6PD-defciency and a non-sulfonylurea alternative should be considered.For Metformin: Regular monitoring of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels is recommended in patients withhypothyroidism. Long-term treatment with metformin has been associated with a decrease in vitamin B12 serumlevels which may cause peripheral neuropathy. Monitoring of the vitamin B12 level is recommended.Overdose Effects of Amaryl M 1 mg+500 mgFor Glimepiride: Acute overdosage, as well as long-term treatment with too high a dose of glimepiride, may lead to severe life-threatening hypoglycaemia. As soon as an overdose of glimepiride has been discovered, a physician must be notifed without delay. The patient must immediately take sugar, if possible in the form of glucose unless a physician has already undertaken responsibility for treating the overdose. Careful monitoring is essential until the physician is confdent that the patient is out of danger. It must be remembered that hypoglycaemia may recur after initial recovery. Admission to hospital may sometimes be necessary even as a precautionary measure. In particular, signifcant overdoses and severe reactions with signs such as loss of consciousness or other serious neurological disorders are medical emergencies and require immediate treatment and admission to hospital. If, for example, the patient is unconscious, an intravenous injection of concentrated glucose solution is indicated (for adults starting with 40 ml of 20% solution, for example). Alternatively in adults, administration of glucagon, e.g. in doses of 0.5 to 1 mg i.v., s.c. or i.m., may be considered. In particular when treating hypoglycaemia due to accidental intake of glimepiride in infants and young children, the dose of glucose given must be very carefully adjusted in view of the possibility of producing dangerous hyperglycaemia, and must be controlled by close monitoring of blood glucose. Patients who have ingested life-threatening amounts of glimepiride require detoxifcation (e.g. by gastric lavage and medicinal charcoal). After acute glucose replacement has been completed it is usually necessary to give an intravenous glucose infusion in lower concentration so as to ensure that the hypoglycaemia does not recur. The patient's blood glucose level should be carefully monitored for at least 24 hours. In severe cases with a protracted course, hypoglycaemia, or the danger of slipping back into hypoglycaemia, may persist for several days.For Metformin: Hypoglycaemia has not been seen with metformin doses of up to 85 g, although Lactic acidosis has occurred in such circumstances. High overdose or concomitant risks of metformin may lead to lactic acidosis Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency and must be treated in hospital. The most efective method to remove lactate and metformin is haemodialysis. Pancreatitis may occur in the context of a metformin overdose.Storage ConditionsStore in a cool (not exceeding 25?C) and dry place, protected from light.Use In Special PopulationsUse in pediatric patients: Safety and efficacy of the medicine was not studied in children with diabetes mellitus type 2.Use in elderly patients: Metformin is excreted mainly by the kidneys. Since there is the risk of development of severe adverse reactions to metformin in patients with impaired renal function, the medicine can only be used in patients with normal renal function. Due to the fact that renal function is reduced with age, metformin should be used with caution. You should carefully select the dose and ensure thorough and regular monitoring of renal function.Drug ClassesCombination Oral hypoglycemic preparationsMode Of ActionGlimepiride is a sulfonylurea antidiabetic agent which decreases blood glucose concentration. The primary mechanism of action of Glimepiride appears to be dependent on stimulating the release of insulin from functioning pancreatic beta cells. Glimepiride acts in concert with glucose by improving the sensitivity of beta cells to physiological glucose stimulus, resulting in insulin secretion. In addition, extrapancreatic effects like reduction of basal hepatic glucose production, increased peripheral tissue sensitivity to insulin and glucose uptake may also play role in the activity of Glimepiride. In non-fasting diabetic patients, the hypoglycaemic action of a single dose of Glimepiride persists for 24 hours.Metformin Hydrochloride is a biguanide type oral antihyperglycemic drug used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It lowers both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Its mechanism of action is different from those of sulfonylureas and it does not produce hypoglycemia. Metformin Hydrochloride decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by an increase in peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.PregnancyPregnancy- For Glimepiride: Glimepiride must not be taken during pregnancy. Otherwise, there is risk of harm to the child. The patient must change over to insulin during pregnancy. Patients planning a pregnancy must inform their physician. It is recommended that such patients change over to insulin. For Metformin: When the patient plans to become pregnant and during pregnancy, diabetes should not be treated with metformin but insulin should be used to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible in order to lower the risk of fetal malformations associated with abnormal blood glucose levels. Lactation- For Glimepiride: To prevent possible ingestion with the breast milk and possible harm to the child, glimepiride must not be taken by breast-feeding women. If necessary the patient must change over to insulin, or must stop breastfeeding. For Metformin: Metformin is excreted into milk in lactating rats. Similar data is not available in humans and a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue metformin, taking into account the importance of the compound to the mother. Pediatric UsesChildren: Data is insufficient to recommend pediatric use of this tablet.Renal impairment: A GFR should be assessed before initiation of treatment with metformin-containing products and at least annually thereafter. In patients at increased risk of further progression of renal impairment and in the elderly, renal function should be assessed more frequently, e.g. every 3-6 months. The maximum daily dose of metformin should preferably be divided into 2-3 daily doses. Factors that may increase the risk of lactic acidosis should be reviewed before considering the initiation of metformin in patients with GFR<60 mL/min. If no adequate strength of this tablet is available, individual monocomponents should be used instead of the fixed dose combination.GFR 60-89 ml/min: Metformin:?Maximum daily dose is 3000 mg. Dose reduction may be considered in relation to declining renal function. Glimepiride: The highest recommended dose per day should be 8 mg of glimepiride. GFR 45-59 ml/min: Metformin: Maximum daily dose is 2000 mg. The starting dose is at most half of the maximum dose. GFR 30-44 ml/min: Metformin: Maximum daily dose is 1000 mg. The starting dose is at most half of the maximum dose. GFR <30 ml/min: Metformin: Metformin is contraindicated Glimepiride: Change-over to insulin is indicated, not least to achieve optimal metabolic control.

Amaryl 2 mgAmaryl 2 mg is indicated in following conditions- Amaryl 2 mg is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to lower the blood glucose in patients with noninsulin dependent (Type II) diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) whose hyperglycaemia cannot be controlled by diet and exercise alone. Amaryl 2 mg may be used concomitantly with metformin when diet, exercise, and Amaryl 2 mg or metformin alone does not result in adequate glycaemic control. ... Read moreAmaryl 2 mg is indicated in following conditions- Amaryl 2 mg is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to lower the blood glucose in patients with noninsulin dependent (Type II) diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) whose hyperglycaemia cannot be controlled by diet and exercise alone. Amaryl 2 mg may be used concomitantly with metformin when diet, exercise, and Amaryl 2 mg or metformin alone does not result in adequate glycaemic control. Amaryl 2 mg is also indicated for use in combination with insulin to lower blood glucose in patients whose hyperglycaemia cannot be controlled by diet and exercise in conjunction with an oral hypoglycaemic agent. Combined use of Amaryl 2 mg and insulin may increase the potential for hypoglycaemia. Theropeutic ClassSulfonylureasPharmacologyAmaryl 2 mg stimulates the insulin release from pancreatic ?-cells and reduces glucose output from the liver. It also increases insulin sensitivity at peripheral target sites.Dosage of Amaryl 2 mgIn principle, the dosage of Amaryl 2 mg is governed by the desired blood sugar level. The dosage of Amaryl 2 mg must be the lowest which is sufficient to achieve the desired metabolic control. The initial and the maintenance doses are set based on the results of regular check of glucose in blood and urine. Monitoring of glucose levels in blood and urine also serves to detect either primary or secondary failure of therapy.Initial dose and dose titration: the usual initial dose is 1 mg once daily, if necessary, the daily dose can be increased. Any increase can be based on regular blood sugar monitoring, and should be gradual, i.e., at intervals of 1 to 2 weeks, and carried out stepwise, as follows: 1 mg -> 2 mg -> 3 mg -> 4 mg -> 6 mg. Dose in patients with well controlled diabetes: the usual dose range in patients with well controlled diabetes is 1 to 4 mg daily.Distribution of doses: Timing and distribution of doses are decided by the physician, in consideration of the patient's current life-style. Normally, a single daily dose is sufficient. This should be taken immediately before a substantial breakfast or if none is taken immediately before the first main meal. It is very important not to skip meals after taking the drug.Secondary dosage adjustment: As control of diabetes improves, sensitivity to insuiin increases; therefore, Amaryl 2 mg requirement may fall as treatment proceeds. To avoid hypoglycaemia, timely dose reduction or cessation of Amaryl 2 mg therapy must be considered. A dose adjustment must also be considered whenever the patient's weight or life-styie changes, or other factors arise which cause an increased susceptibility to hypo or hyperglycaemia.Changeover from other oral antidiabetics to Amaryl 2 mg: There is no exact dosage relationship between Amaryl 2 mg and other oral blood sugar lowering agents. When substituting Amaryl 2 mg for other such agents, the initial daily dose is 1 mg; this applies even in changeover from maximum dose of other oral blood sugar lowering agents. Any dose increase should be in accordance with guideline given above in 'initial dose and dose titration'. Consideration must be given to the potency and duration of action of the previous blood sugar lowering agent. It may be necessary to interrupt treatment to avoid additive effects which would increase the risk of hypoglycaemia.Administration of Amaryl 2 mgAmaryl 2 mg tablet must be swallowed with sufficient amount of liquid.Interaction of Amaryl 2 mgBased on experience with Amaryl 2 mg and known interactions for other sulfonylureas, the following interactions must be considered.In addition to insulin and other oral antidiabetic agents, drugs which may potentiate the hypoglycaemic action of Amaryl 2 mg include: ACE inhibitors, aminosalicylic acid, anabolic steroids and male sex hormones, azapropazone, chloramphenicol, ciofibrate, coumarin derivatives, cyclophosphamide, disopyramide, fenfluramine, fenyramidol, fibrates, fluconazole, fluoxetine, guanethidine, ifosfamide, MAO-inhibitors, miconazole, oxpentifylline (high dose parenteral), oxyphenbutazone, para-aminosalicylic acid, phenylbutazone, probenecid, quinolones, salicylates, sulphinpyrazone, sulfonamide antibiotics, tetracyclines, tritoqualine, trofosfamide.Drugs which may attenuate the hypoglycaemic action of Amaryl 2 mg include: Acetazoiamide, barbiturates, calcium channel blockers, corticosteroids, diazoxide, diuretics, glucagon, isoniazid, laxatives, nicotinic acid (high doses), oestrogens, phenothiazines, phenytoin, progestagens, rifampicin, sympathomimetic agents, thyroid hormones. H2 receptor antagonists, beta-blockers, clonidine and reserpine may lead to either potentiation or weakening of the blood-glucose-lowering effect. Concomitant treatment with a beta-receptor blocker, clonidine, guanethidine or reserpine may mask the warning symptoms of a hypoglycaemic attack. Acute and chronic aicohol intake may either potentiate or attenuate the activity of Amaryl 2 mg in an unpredictable fashion. ContraindicationsAmaryl 2 mg is not suitable for the treatment of insulin dependent (type I) diabetes mellitus, or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis, nor for the treatment of diabetic coma. Amaryl 2 mg must not be used in patients hypersensitive to Amaryl 2 mg, other sulfonylureas, other sulfonamides, severe hepatic dysfunction, severe impairment of renal function and dialysis patients.Side Effects of Amaryl 2 mgHypoglycaemia, temporary visual impairment, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, urticaria, fall in blood pressure.Pregnancy & LactationPregnancy: Amaryl 2 mg must not be taken during pregnancy; a changeover to Insulin is necessary. Patients planning a pregnancy must inform their physician, and should be shifted to Insulin.Lactation: Ingestion of Amaryl 2 mg with breast milk may harm the child. Therefore, Amaryl 2 mg must not be taken by lactating women. Either a changeover or a complete discontinuation of breast-feeding is necessary.Precautions & Warningsin the initial weeks of treatment, the risk of hypoglycaemia may be increased and necessitates careful monitoring. If such risk present it may be necessary to adjust the dosage of Amaryl 2 mg, Hypoglycaemia can almost be promptly controlled by immediate intake of carbohydrates (glucose or sugar).Overdose Effects of Amaryl 2 mgOverdosage of sulfonylureas, including Amaryl 2 mg, can produce hypoglycaemia. Mild hypoglycaemic symptoms without loss of consciousness or neurologic findings should be treated aggressively with oral glucose and adjustments in drug dosage or meal patterns. Close monitoring should continue until the physician is assured that the patient is out of danger. Severe hypoglycaemic reactions with coma, seizure, or other neurological impairment occur infrequently, but constitute medicai emergencies requiring immediate hospitalization. If hypoglycaemic coma is diagnosed or suspected, the patient should be given a rapid intravenous injection of? concentrated (50%) glucose solution. This should be followed by a continuous infusion of a more dilute (10%) glucose solution at a rate that will maintain the blood glucose at a level above 100 mg/dl. Patients should be closely monitored for a minimum of 24 to 48 hours, because hypoglycaemia may recur after apparent clinical recovery.Storage ConditionsDo not store above 30?C. Keep away from light and out of the reach of children.Use In Special PopulationsPediatric use: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.Geriatric use: No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between elderly and adult subjects, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. The drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function.Use in renal insufficiency: A starting dose of 1 mg Amaryl 2 mg may be given to NIDDM patients with kidney disease, and the dose may be titrated based on fasting blood glucose levels. Use in hepatic insufficiency: No studies were performed in patients with hepatic insufficiency. Adverse reactions: Hypoglycemia. Adverse events, other than hypoglycemia, are dizzines, asthenia, headache, and nausea.Drug ClassesSulfonylureasMode Of ActionAmaryl 2 mg is a sulfonylurea antidiabetic agent which decreases blood glucose concentration. The primary mechanism of action of Amaryl 2 mg appears to be dependent on stimulating the release of insulin from functioning pancreatic beta cells. Amaryl 2 mg acts in concert with glucose by improving the sensitivity of beta cells to physiological glucose stimulus, resulting in insulin secretion. In addition, extrapancreatic effects like reduction of basal hepatic glucose production, increased peripheral tissue sensitivity to insulin and glucose uptake may also play role in the activity of Amaryl 2 mg. In non-fasting diabetic patients, the hypoglycaemic action of a single dose of Amaryl 2 mg persists for 24 hours.PregnancyAmaryl 2 mg must not be taken during pregnancy; a changeover to insulin is necessary. Patients planning a pregnancy must inform their physician, and should change over?to insulin. Ingestion of Amaryl 2 mg with breast milk feeding may harm the child. Therefore, Amaryl 2 mg must not be taken by breastfeeding women. Either a changeover or complete discontinuation of breastfeeding is necessary.

Amaryl 3 mgAmaryl 3 mg is indicated in following conditions- Amaryl 3 mg is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to lower the blood glucose in patients with noninsulin dependent (Type II) diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) whose hyperglycaemia cannot be controlled by diet and exercise alone. Amaryl 3 mg may be used concomitantly with metformin when diet, exercise, and Amaryl 3 mg or metformin alone does not result in adequate glycaemic control. ... Read moreAmaryl 3 mg is indicated in following conditions- Amaryl 3 mg is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to lower the blood glucose in patients with noninsulin dependent (Type II) diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) whose hyperglycaemia cannot be controlled by diet and exercise alone. Amaryl 3 mg may be used concomitantly with metformin when diet, exercise, and Amaryl 3 mg or metformin alone does not result in adequate glycaemic control. Amaryl 3 mg is also indicated for use in combination with insulin to lower blood glucose in patients whose hyperglycaemia cannot be controlled by diet and exercise in conjunction with an oral hypoglycaemic agent. Combined use of Amaryl 3 mg and insulin may increase the potential for hypoglycaemia. Theropeutic ClassSulfonylureasPharmacologyAmaryl 3 mg stimulates the insulin release from pancreatic ?-cells and reduces glucose output from the liver. It also increases insulin sensitivity at peripheral target sites.Dosage of Amaryl 3 mgIn principle, the dosage of Amaryl 3 mg is governed by the desired blood sugar level. The dosage of Amaryl 3 mg must be the lowest which is sufficient to achieve the desired metabolic control. The initial and the maintenance doses are set based on the results of regular check of glucose in blood and urine. Monitoring of glucose levels in blood and urine also serves to detect either primary or secondary failure of therapy.Initial dose and dose titration: the usual initial dose is 1 mg once daily, if necessary, the daily dose can be increased. Any increase can be based on regular blood sugar monitoring, and should be gradual, i.e., at intervals of 1 to 2 weeks, and carried out stepwise, as follows: 1 mg -> 2 mg -> 3 mg -> 4 mg -> 6 mg. Dose in patients with well controlled diabetes: the usual dose range in patients with well controlled diabetes is 1 to 4 mg daily.Distribution of doses: Timing and distribution of doses are decided by the physician, in consideration of the patient's current life-style. Normally, a single daily dose is sufficient. This should be taken immediately before a substantial breakfast or if none is taken immediately before the first main meal. It is very important not to skip meals after taking the drug.Secondary dosage adjustment: As control of diabetes improves, sensitivity to insuiin increases; therefore, Amaryl 3 mg requirement may fall as treatment proceeds. To avoid hypoglycaemia, timely dose reduction or cessation of Amaryl 3 mg therapy must be considered. A dose adjustment must also be considered whenever the patient's weight or life-styie changes, or other factors arise which cause an increased susceptibility to hypo or hyperglycaemia.Changeover from other oral antidiabetics to Amaryl 3 mg: There is no exact dosage relationship between Amaryl 3 mg and other oral blood sugar lowering agents. When substituting Amaryl 3 mg for other such agents, the initial daily dose is 1 mg; this applies even in changeover from maximum dose of other oral blood sugar lowering agents. Any dose increase should be in accordance with guideline given above in 'initial dose and dose titration'. Consideration must be given to the potency and duration of action of the previous blood sugar lowering agent. It may be necessary to interrupt treatment to avoid additive effects which would increase the risk of hypoglycaemia.Administration of Amaryl 3 mgAmaryl 3 mg tablet must be swallowed with sufficient amount of liquid.Interaction of Amaryl 3 mgBased on experience with Amaryl 3 mg and known interactions for other sulfonylureas, the following interactions must be considered.In addition to insulin and other oral antidiabetic agents, drugs which may potentiate the hypoglycaemic action of Amaryl 3 mg include: ACE inhibitors, aminosalicylic acid, anabolic steroids and male sex hormones, azapropazone, chloramphenicol, ciofibrate, coumarin derivatives, cyclophosphamide, disopyramide, fenfluramine, fenyramidol, fibrates, fluconazole, fluoxetine, guanethidine, ifosfamide, MAO-inhibitors, miconazole, oxpentifylline (high dose parenteral), oxyphenbutazone, para-aminosalicylic acid, phenylbutazone, probenecid, quinolones, salicylates, sulphinpyrazone, sulfonamide antibiotics, tetracyclines, tritoqualine, trofosfamide.Drugs which may attenuate the hypoglycaemic action of Amaryl 3 mg include: Acetazoiamide, barbiturates, calcium channel blockers, corticosteroids, diazoxide, diuretics, glucagon, isoniazid, laxatives, nicotinic acid (high doses), oestrogens, phenothiazines, phenytoin, progestagens, rifampicin, sympathomimetic agents, thyroid hormones. H2 receptor antagonists, beta-blockers, clonidine and reserpine may lead to either potentiation or weakening of the blood-glucose-lowering effect. Concomitant treatment with a beta-receptor blocker, clonidine, guanethidine or reserpine may mask the warning symptoms of a hypoglycaemic attack. Acute and chronic aicohol intake may either potentiate or attenuate the activity of Amaryl 3 mg in an unpredictable fashion. ContraindicationsAmaryl 3 mg is not suitable for the treatment of insulin dependent (type I) diabetes mellitus, or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis, nor for the treatment of diabetic coma. Amaryl 3 mg must not be used in patients hypersensitive to Amaryl 3 mg, other sulfonylureas, other sulfonamides, severe hepatic dysfunction, severe impairment of renal function and dialysis patients.Side Effects of Amaryl 3 mgHypoglycaemia, temporary visual impairment, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, urticaria, fall in blood pressure.Pregnancy & LactationPregnancy: Amaryl 3 mg must not be taken during pregnancy; a changeover to Insulin is necessary. Patients planning a pregnancy must inform their physician, and should be shifted to Insulin.Lactation: Ingestion of Amaryl 3 mg with breast milk may harm the child. Therefore, Amaryl 3 mg must not be taken by lactating women. Either a changeover or a complete discontinuation of breast-feeding is necessary.Precautions & Warningsin the initial weeks of treatment, the risk of hypoglycaemia may be increased and necessitates careful monitoring. If such risk present it may be necessary to adjust the dosage of Amaryl 3 mg, Hypoglycaemia can almost be promptly controlled by immediate intake of carbohydrates (glucose or sugar).Overdose Effects of Amaryl 3 mgOverdosage of sulfonylureas, including Amaryl 3 mg, can produce hypoglycaemia. Mild hypoglycaemic symptoms without loss of consciousness or neurologic findings should be treated aggressively with oral glucose and adjustments in drug dosage or meal patterns. Close monitoring should continue until the physician is assured that the patient is out of danger. Severe hypoglycaemic reactions with coma, seizure, or other neurological impairment occur infrequently, but constitute medicai emergencies requiring immediate hospitalization. If hypoglycaemic coma is diagnosed or suspected, the patient should be given a rapid intravenous injection of? concentrated (50%) glucose solution. This should be followed by a continuous infusion of a more dilute (10%) glucose solution at a rate that will maintain the blood glucose at a level above 100 mg/dl. Patients should be closely monitored for a minimum of 24 to 48 hours, because hypoglycaemia may recur after apparent clinical recovery.Storage ConditionsDo not store above 30?C. Keep away from light and out of the reach of children.Use In Special PopulationsPediatric use: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.Geriatric use: No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between elderly and adult subjects, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. The drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function.Use in renal insufficiency: A starting dose of 1 mg Amaryl 3 mg may be given to NIDDM patients with kidney disease, and the dose may be titrated based on fasting blood glucose levels. Use in hepatic insufficiency: No studies were performed in patients with hepatic insufficiency. Adverse reactions: Hypoglycemia. Adverse events, other than hypoglycemia, are dizzines, asthenia, headache, and nausea.Drug ClassesSulfonylureasMode Of ActionAmaryl 3 mg is a sulfonylurea antidiabetic agent which decreases blood glucose concentration. The primary mechanism of action of Amaryl 3 mg appears to be dependent on stimulating the release of insulin from functioning pancreatic beta cells. Amaryl 3 mg acts in concert with glucose by improving the sensitivity of beta cells to physiological glucose stimulus, resulting in insulin secretion. In addition, extrapancreatic effects like reduction of basal hepatic glucose production, increased peripheral tissue sensitivity to insulin and glucose uptake may also play role in the activity of Amaryl 3 mg. In non-fasting diabetic patients, the hypoglycaemic action of a single dose of Amaryl 3 mg persists for 24 hours.PregnancyAmaryl 3 mg must not be taken during pregnancy; a changeover to insulin is necessary. Patients planning a pregnancy must inform their physician, and should change over?to insulin. Ingestion of Amaryl 3 mg with breast milk feeding may harm the child. Therefore, Amaryl 3 mg must not be taken by breastfeeding women. Either a changeover or complete discontinuation of breastfeeding is necessary.