INTRODUCTION

EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET is a combination of Glimepiride and Pioglitazone which belongs to the group of medicines called Antidiabetic agents. It is used in adults to treat type II diabetes mellitus when diet, exercise and treatment with conventional therapies (such as metformin, gliclazide, etc.) does not result in adequate sugar control.

Type II diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease characterized by abnormally high levels of glucose in the blood. It is caused due to inadequate production of a hormone called insulin (produced by pancreas to metabolize glucose) in the body or due to inadequate sensitivity of body cells to the actions of insulin.

Along with the treatment, follow the diet and lifestyle changes advised by your doctor to achieve better results. Avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol while taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET as it may aggravate your existing condition.

Before taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET, inform your doctor if you have any liver, kidney or heart problems. You must also inform your doctor if you have any eye problems, hormonal imbalance or if you are malnourished, starved, on an irregular diet as a precaution.

EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET is not recommended for use in patients with type I diabetes mellitus or severe heart failure. It is also not suitable for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

One of the most common side effects of taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels). To avoid this, your doctor will periodically monitor your blood sugar levels and adjust the dose of EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET accordingly.

You can also carry a sugary snack (such as biscuits, glucose drinks or sweet candies) along with you as a precaution and have them immediately if you experience any signs of hypoglycemia (such as hunger, restlessness, confusion, shakiness).

Other most common side effects of taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET are abnormal vision, headache, dizziness, weight gain, numbness, joint pain, impotence, back pain, shortness of breath and anaemia. Consult your doctor if any of these side effect worsens.

USES OF EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET

• Treats Type II diabetes mellitus

HOW EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET WORKS

EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET stimulates the pancreas to secrete more insulin (a hormone involved in glucose metabolism). It also makes our body more sensitive to insulin which helps in digesting the circulating sugars (glucose) in the blood, thereby reducing blood sugar levels. Additionally, it can also reduce the glucose produced by the liver.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Take EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET preferably after meals or as advised by your physician. Swallow the medicine with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine.

Your doctor will decide the correct dose and duration of therapy for you depending upon your age, body weight and disease condition.

Do not stop taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET unless your doctor advice you to stop.

SIDE EFFECTS OF EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET

HOW TO MANAGE SIDE EFFECTS

Headache:

Rest and relax. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids such as water or electrolytes. Applying a pain-relieving balm on your forehead can be beneficial. Do not consume excessive alcohol, as it could aggravate your headache. Consult your doctor if your headache worsens.

Dizziness:

Try to rest and relax. Get enough sleep. Avoid driving or operating any tools or machines completely while you are feeling dizzy. Do not consume excessive alcohol. Consult your doctor if your dizziness worsens.

Hypoglycemia:

Have foods rich in sugars such as fruit juices, glucose drinks, candies, honey or biscuits. Consult your doctor if there is no improvement in your condition.

WARNING & PRECAUTIONS

INTERACTIONS

A. Drug - Drug interactions:

Before taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET, inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

• other medicines used to treat diabetes mellitus (such as insulin or metformin)
• medicines used for treating pain and inflammation (Ex. aspirin, ibuprofen, phenylbutazone, azopropazone, oxyphenbutazone)
• medicines used to treat urinary infections (amikacin, nitrofurantoin, sulfamethoxazole)
• medicines used to treat bacterial infections (such as tetracyclines, chloramphenicol, ciprofloxacin, clarithromycin)
• medicines used to treat fungal infection (Ex. fluconazole, miconazole)
• medicines used to prevent blood clotting (Ex. warfarin)
• medicines used for muscle build-up (Ex. nandrolone, oxymethalone)
• medicines used for male sex hormone replacement therapy (Ex. testosterone)
• medicines used to treat depression (such as moclobemide, isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, fluoxetine)
• medicines used to treat high blood cholesterol levels (Ex. fenofibrate, nicotinic acid, colesevelam)
• medicines used to treat high blood pressure (Ex. enalapril, lisinopril, ramipril, atenolol, propranolol, telmisartan, olmesartan, clonidine, guanethidine and reserpine)
• disopyramide (a medicine used to treat abnormal heartbeat)
• medicines used to treat gout (Ex. allopurinol, probenecid, sulfinpyrazone)
• medicines used to treat cancer (Ex. cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide, trofosfamide)
• fenfluramine (a medicine used to treat obesity)
• pentoxifylline (a medicine which can improve blood flow in the body)
• medicines used to treat allergic rhinitis (Ex. tritoqualine)
• alpha blockers (medicines used to treat high blood pressure or prostate problems) Ex. prazosin, doxazosin
• hormonal replacement therapy (used to treat menstrual disorders in women) Ex. estradiol
• thiazide diuretics (used to treat edema and high blood pressure) Ex. hydrochlorothiazide
• levothyroxine (a medicine used to treat thyroid problems)
• medicines to treat mental illness (such as chlorpromazine, prochlorperazine, lithium)
• corticosteroids (used to treat pain and inflammation) Ex. prednisolone, betamethasone
• medicines used to treat asthma (Ex. salbutamol, terbutaline)
• adrenaline (a medicine used to treat emergency conditions)
• medicines used to treat constipation (Ex. lactulose, liquid paraffin)
• medicines used to treat epilepsy (Ex. phenytoin)
• barbiturates (used to induce sleep) Ex. phenobarbital
• medicines used to reduce increased pressure in the eye (Ex. acetazolamide)
• glucagon, diazoxide (medicines used to manage signs of low blood sugar levels)
• cimetidine (a medicine used to treat stomach ulcers)
• gemfibrozil (a medicine used to lower blood cholesterol levels)
• rifampicin (a medicine used to treat tuberculosis)

Overdosage:

If you or anyone else accidentally took more EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET, you may experience the signs of hypoglycemia (such as increased hunger, sweating, headache, feeling clammy, restless or aggressive, shakiness, fast heartbeat and confusion). To manage this, consume any sugary food immediately. If the symptom did not improve or worsens contact your doctor immediately.

SYNOPSIS

MORE INFORMATION

• Keep EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET out of reach of children
• Store EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET at room temperature

FAQs ABOUT EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET

What is EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET used for?

EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET is an antidiabetic medicine used to treat Type II diabetes mellitus when diet, exercise and treatment with conventional therapies does not result in adequate response.

How and when to take EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET?

Take EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET preferably after meals or as advised by your physician. Swallow the medicine with a glass of water. Do not cursh or chew the medicine. Your doctor will decide the correct dose and duration of therapy for you depending upon your age, body weight and disease condition.

How long should I take EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET?

You need to take EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET as long as your doctor or physician prescribes you the medicine. Your doctor will decide the correct dose and duration of therapy for you depending upon your age, body weight and disease condition.

What is the best time to take EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET?

EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET must be taken with meals to avoid gastrointestinal side effects.

What to do if I forgot to take a dose of EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET?

If you forgot to take a dose of EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is time for the next dose of EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET, skip the missed dose and take the next one regularly. Do not take a double dose of EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET to compensate the missed ones.

Can I stop taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET without consulting your doctor?

No. You should not stop taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET without consulting your doctor because it may lead to reversal of symptoms. If you feel better after using EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET, consult your doctor for advice.

Will taking a higher dose of EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET be more effective?

No, taking a higher dose of EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET will not be effective rather it can lead to toxicity. Always take the dose prescribed by your doctor. If the prescribed dose is not effective for you, consult your doctor for advice. Your doctor might increase the dose or suggest an alternative therapy.

Can I take medication for high blood pressure along with EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET?

It is not advisable to take medicines to control blood pressure while taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET without consulting your doctor, as they have known interactions with EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET.

How to manage the side effects of EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET?

Low blood sugar is a common side effect of taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET. Try to have sugar rich food items such as fruit juice, glucose tablets or gel, soft drinks, honey or sugary candy. Check your blood sugar after 10 minutes. If not gained optimum level, take another sugary snack or drink and check the blood sugar levels once again. If your condition did not improve, consult your doctor immediately.

Can EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET be taken with insulin?

Co-administration of EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET with insulin is considered risky as they can increase the chances of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels). Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Can EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET be used in pregnant women?

EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET is not recommended for use in pregnant women. Therefore, consult your doctor for advice before taking it.

Does EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET cause bone fractures?

EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET may cause bone fractures in some individuals. Therefore, it is important for you to inform your doctor before taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET if you have any bone problems or at risk of developing any bone fractures (such as menopause).

Does EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET cause weight gain?

Yes. EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET may cause weight gain in some individuals. To avoid this, follow a healthy diet and regular physical activity as advised by your physician. However, if you experience any weight gain due to swelling of body parts (such as in face, legs or hands), consult your doctor immediately.

What are the side effects of taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET?

The most common side effects of taking EUROGLIP FORTE TABLET are decreased blood sugar (hypoglycaemia), abnormal vision, headache, dizziness, weight gain, numbness, joint pain, impotence, back pain, shortness of breath, anaemia and increased respiratory infections. Consult your doctor if any of these side effect worsens.

REFERENCES

1. KD. Tripathi. Insulin, Oral Hypoglycaemic Drugs and Glucagon. Essentials of medical pharmacology. Seventh edition. 2013. Page – 270 & 277.

2. Meng Tan, Don Johns, Guillermo González Gálvez, Oscar Antúnez, Guadalupe Fabián, Fernando Flores-Lozano, Sergio Zúñiga Guajardo, Eduardo Garza, Hector Morales, Christopher Konkoy, Matthias Herz, GLAD Study Group. Effects of pioglitazone and glimepiride on glycemic control and insulin sensitivity in Mexican patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group trial. NIH: National Library of Medicine, National center of biotechnology Information Pubmed.gov. May 2004. [Accessed on 8th December 2022]. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15220012/

3. Brown & Burk UK Limited. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in December 2020] [Accessed on 8th December 2022]. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.10742.pdf

4. Gerard Laboratories. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in August 2020] [Accessed on 8th December 2022] https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.8836.pdf

5. Sandoz Inc. Pioglitazone Hydrochloride and Glimepiride Tablet. Dailymed.com. [Revised in June 2018]. [Accessed on 8th December 2022]. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=2aab19ce-1e5e-44ee-85e5-d8f125f9bb1a

USEFUL DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Glucose - Fasting Blood
• Glucose - Postprandial Blood
• Glycosylated Hemoglobin