OKAMET GM 501 TABS

Description

Okamet GM 501 Tablet is an oral antidiabetic combination medicine manufactured by Cipla Ltd. It combines Glimepiride 1mg and Metformin Hydrochloride 500mg (Sustained Release) to provide effective management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in patients who are not adequately controlled with lifestyle modifications or single-drug therapy.

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How Okamet GM 501 Works

• Glimepiride (1mg): A sulfonylurea drug that stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin, thereby reducing high blood sugar levels after meals.

• Metformin SR (500mg): A biguanide that reduces sugar production in the liver, decreases absorption of glucose from the intestine, and improves insulin sensitivity. The sustained-release formulation ensures gradual absorption, reducing stomach-related side effects and maintaining steady blood sugar control.

This dual mechanism targets both fasting and post-meal blood glucose levels, providing more comprehensive management of diabetes.

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Uses of Okamet GM 501 Tablet

• Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus when diet, exercise, and monotherapy are insufficient.

• Helps lower fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels.

• Reduces the risk of long-term complications of diabetes such as:

  • Diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage)

  • Diabetic neuropathy (nerve pain, tingling, numbness)

  • Diabetic retinopathy (eye damage/vision loss)

  • Cardiovascular diseases (heart attack, stroke)

• Provides better control in patients requiring combination therapy at lower Glimepiride strength.

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Dosage & Administration

• Usually taken once daily with a meal, preferably breakfast or the first main meal.

• Swallow the tablet whole with water, do not crush or chew.

• Dosage may be adjusted based on blood glucose levels and doctor’s recommendation.

• Regular monitoring of blood sugar and HbA1c is advised.

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Precautions

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

• Use cautiously in patients with kidney or liver impairment.

• Avoid alcohol as it increases the risk of lactic acidosis (from Metformin) and severe hypoglycemia (from Glimepiride).

• Hypoglycemia is possible; patients should not skip meals and should carry a sugar source (like glucose tablets or candy).

• Use in pregnancy or breastfeeding should be done only under medical advice.

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Possible Side Effects

• Hypoglycemia (sweating, shakiness, dizziness, weakness)

• Nausea, diarrhea, stomach upset

• Headache, mild dizziness

• Long-term Metformin use may lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency

• Rare but serious: Lactic acidosis with Metformin

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Overall Benefit

Okamet GM 501 Tablet is an effective and well-balanced therapy for Type 2 Diabetes, especially suitable for patients who need combination treatment but with a lower Glimepiride dose. It provides strong glucose control, reduces the risk of complications, and improves overall health outcomes when used along with diet and exercise.