Istamet

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 lowers glucose production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity. Sitagliptin inhibits the enzyme DPP4 and increases insulin release from the pancreas. This combination is not indicated for the patients below 18 years of age.

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.

The use of Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet should be avoided in patients with known allergies to any of the components or excipients of this medicine. The use of this medicine should be avoided in patients with severe kidney impairment, liver impairment, congestive heart failure, lactic acidosis, or diabetic ketoacidosis.

No, it is not safe to consume alcohol along with Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet, as it can increase the chances of 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. 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.

Yes, using Istamet 50mg/500mg Tablet can cause Vitamin B12 deficiency in the long term. 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 a tingling sensation and numbness in hands and feet, weakness, urinary problems, change in mental status, and difficulty maintaining balance (ataxia). To avoid such problems, some researchers suggest an intake of vitamin B12 from outside sources at least once every year.

Keep this medicine tightly closed in the container or pack it came in. Store it according to the instructions on the pack or label. Dispose of the unused medicine. Make sure it is not consumed by pets, children, or other people.