OKAMET 500

Description

Okamet 500 Tablet is an oral antidiabetic medicine manufactured by Cipla Ltd. It contains Metformin Hydrochloride 500mg, a drug from the biguanide class, widely prescribed for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Metformin works by:

• Reducing glucose production in the liver (hepatic gluconeogenesis)

• Decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose

• Improving insulin sensitivity in muscles and fat tissues, which enhances the body’s natural ability to utilize glucose

Unlike some other antidiabetic medicines, Metformin does not cause weight gain and rarely causes hypoglycemia when used alone, making it one of the most preferred first-line treatments for Type 2 Diabetes.

---

Uses of Okamet 500 Tablet

• Treatment and management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (non-insulin-dependent diabetes)

• Helps lower both fasting and postprandial (after meal) blood sugar levels

• Used to prevent long-term complications of diabetes such as:

  • Diabetic kidney disease (nephropathy)

  • Nerve damage (neuropathy)

  • Eye problems (retinopathy)

  • Cardiovascular risks (heart attack, stroke)

• Sometimes used in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate menstrual cycles (only under medical advice)

---

Dosage & Administration

• Usually taken once or twice daily with meals to reduce stomach irritation.

• Dose may be adjusted depending on blood sugar levels and medical condition.

• Regular blood glucose monitoring and HbA1c testing are important.

---

Precautions

• Should be used with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease.

• Avoid excessive alcohol intake as it increases the risk of lactic acidosis (a rare but serious side effect).

• Not usually recommended in Type 1 Diabetes or in cases of severe infections, dehydration, or heart failure without doctor supervision.

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should take it only on medical advice.

---

Possible Side Effects

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach upset (usually improve with time)

• Metallic taste in the mouth or loss of appetite

• Vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use

• Rare but serious: Lactic acidosis (symptoms include muscle pain, tiredness, breathing difficulty, abdominal pain)

---

Overall Benefit

Okamet 500 Tablet is a safe, effective, and widely used first-line treatment for Type 2 Diabetes. By lowering blood sugar and improving insulin sensitivity, it not only helps in achieving better daily sugar control but also reduces the risk of long-term complications, improving the patient’s overall health and quality of life.