OKAMET GM 502 TABS

Description

Okamet GM 502 Tablet is a combination oral antidiabetic medicine manufactured by Cipla Ltd. It contains Glimepiride 2mg and Metformin Hydrochloride 500mg (Sustained Release). This medicine is prescribed for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus when diet, exercise, and single therapy are not sufficient to control blood sugar levels.

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How Okamet GM 502 Works

• Glimepiride (2mg): A sulfonylurea that stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin, helping to reduce high blood sugar levels, especially after meals.

• Metformin SR (500mg): A biguanide that reduces glucose production in the liver, delays absorption of sugar from the intestine, and enhances the body’s sensitivity to insulin. The sustained-release (SR) formulation provides longer-lasting action and reduces stomach irritation compared to immediate-release forms.

Together, these medicines provide complementary effects, giving effective control over both fasting and postprandial (after meal) blood glucose levels.

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Uses of Okamet GM 502 Tablet

• Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in patients not adequately controlled by lifestyle measures or single-drug therapy.

• Helps in lowering fasting and post-meal sugar levels.

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

  • Diabetic kidney disease (nephropathy)

  • Nerve damage (neuropathy – tingling, numbness, burning pain)

  • Eye damage (retinopathy/vision problems)

  • Cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke

• Beneficial for patients requiring stronger glucose control with higher Glimepiride strength.

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Dosage & Administration

• Usually taken once daily with the first main meal of the day (preferably breakfast).

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

• Dose adjustments depend on blood sugar levels and doctor’s recommendation.

• Regular monitoring of blood glucose and HbA1c is necessary for effective control.

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Precautions

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

• Caution required in patients with kidney or liver problems.

• Avoid alcohol as it increases the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and lactic acidosis.

• Patients should not skip meals and should always carry a sugar source (like glucose tablets or candy) in case of hypoglycemia.

• Should be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding only on medical advice.

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Possible Side Effects

• Hypoglycemia (sweating, shakiness, hunger, dizziness, weakness)

• Stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort

• Headache or mild dizziness

• Long-term use may cause Vitamin B12 deficiency (due to Metformin)

• Rare but serious: Lactic acidosis (symptoms: muscle pain, breathing difficulty, severe weakness)

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Overall Benefit

Okamet GM 502 Tablet provides a powerful dual therapy for Type 2 Diabetes by combining Glimepiride and Metformin SR. It ensures effective blood sugar control throughout the day, lowers the risk of diabetes-related complications, and improves overall quality of life when taken along with a proper diet and exercise routine.