Duopil 1/500 Tablet PR

Description

Duopil 1/500 Tablet PR is an oral anti-diabetic combination medicine used in the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). It combines Glimepiride, which stimulates insulin release from the pancreas, and Metformin, which reduces glucose production in the liver and increases insulin sensitivity.

The PR (Prolonged Release) formulation ensures slow and sustained release of Metformin, thereby providing better blood sugar control with fewer gastrointestinal side effects. This medicine is prescribed when diet, exercise, and monotherapy with a single antidiabetic drug are insufficient to control blood sugar.

Uses / Indications

• Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

• Improves glycemic control when monotherapy is inadequate

• Reduces risk of long-term complications of diabetes such as heart disease, neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy

How It Works (Mechanism of Action)

• Glimepiride (1 mg): A sulfonylurea that increases pancreatic insulin secretion.

• Metformin (500 mg PR): A biguanide that decreases hepatic glucose production, delays intestinal glucose absorption, and enhances insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues.

• Combined Effect: Provides balanced control of fasting and postprandial (after-meal) blood sugar levels.

Dosage & Administration

• Usual dose: One tablet once or twice daily, or as directed by the physician.

• Take with meals to reduce risk of stomach upset and low blood sugar.

• Swallow whole; do not crush or chew (since it is prolonged-release).

• Dose may be adjusted based on blood glucose monitoring.

Side Effects

Common:

• Hypoglycemia (sweating, dizziness, hunger, tremors, palpitations)

• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea

• Headache, metallic taste

Serious but rare:

• Lactic acidosis (metformin-related; symptoms: rapid breathing, muscle pain, extreme tiredness)

• Severe allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, breathing difficulty)

• Severe hypoglycemia if meals are missed or excessive dose is taken

Precautions & Warnings

• Not for use in Type 1 Diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

• Avoid alcohol consumption (increases risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia).

• Caution in patients with kidney, liver, heart disease, or adrenal/pituitary disorders.

• Inform your doctor before any surgery or radiology test involving contrast dye—metformin may need to be stopped temporarily.

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use only if prescribed.

• Maintain proper diet and regular exercise for best results.

Summary

Duopil 1/500 Tablet PR is a combination of Glimepiride 1 mg and Metformin 500 mg (Prolonged Release). It helps achieve effective and sustained control of blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes by increasing insulin secretion and improving insulin sensitivity. Regular use, along with lifestyle modifications, lowers the risk of long-term diabetic complications and supports better overall health.