Sitamet 50/500 mg

Sitamet 50/500 mg

 

Active Ingredients: Sitagliptin 50 mg and Metformin Hydrochloride 500 mg

Drug Class: Antidiabetic / Combination of a DPP-4 Inhibitor and a Biguanide

Uses: Sitamet 50/500 mg is an oral medication used to help control blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It is a combination therapy that brings together two different types of diabetes medications to provide better control than either one alone.

• Sitagliptin: This component increases the body’s ability to produce insulin after a meal and reduces the amount of sugar the liver produces.
• Metformin: This component reduces the amount of glucose absorbed from food and the amount of glucose produced by the liver. It also helps improve the body’s response to insulin.

Doctors typically prescribe Sitamet 50/500 mg when a patient’s blood sugar is not adequately controlled with Metformin alone or with Metformin and Sitagliptin as separate tablets. This strength is often used to start treatment or for patients who require a lower dose of Metformin.

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Prescription and Administration Details

 

Sitamet 50/500 mg is a prescription-only medication. It is not for over-the-counter use. A doctor must prescribe it and strictly monitor its use as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes diet and exercise.

Dosage: The typical dose is one tablet, one or two times a day with meals, or as directed by your doctor. The specific dosage will depend on your current treatment and medical history.

How to Take:

• Take the tablets with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects, which are common with Metformin.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
• Take the medication at the same time each day to help you remember.
• It is crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.

Side Effects: Because Sitamet contains two active ingredients, it can have a range of side effects. Common ones include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach upset
• Headache or upper respiratory infection
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• In rare cases: Severe allergic reactions, pancreatitis, or lactic acidosis (a very rare but serious buildup of lactic acid, which is a key risk of Metformin).

If you experience severe side effects, especially signs of an allergic reaction (like swelling of the face, lips, or throat) or severe abdominal pain, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Price: The approximate price for a pack of Sitamet 50/500 mg is Rs. 584.8. Prices can vary depending on the pharmacy, location, and the number of tablets in the pack.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Q1: What is the difference between Sitamet 50/500 mg and Sitamet 50/1000 mg? A: The primary difference is the strength of the Metformin component. Sitamet 50/500 mg contains 500 mg of Metformin, while Sitamet 50/1000 mg contains 1000 mg. Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate strength based on your individual needs.

Q2: Can Sitamet cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)? A: When taken as a combination, the risk of hypoglycemia is low. However, if you combine Sitamet with other drugs that can lower blood sugar (like sulfonylureas or insulin), the risk increases.

Q3: Do I need to watch my diet while taking Sitamet? A: Yes, diet and exercise are fundamental parts of any diabetes management plan. Sitamet works best when combined with a healthy diet and regular physical activity.

Q4: Should I take Sitamet if I have kidney problems? A: You should not take Sitamet if you have severe kidney problems, as the Metformin component can be dangerous. A doctor will assess your kidney function before prescribing this medication.

Q5: What should I do if I miss a dose? A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.