Piglisil 5 15 Tablet SR

Introduction

Piglisil is a prescription medication that combines two active ingredients: Pioglitazone and Metformin. It is available under the brand name Piglisil. This medication is primarily used to help manage blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Uses

Piglisil is prescribed to individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus to help control their blood sugar levels. It is typically used in combination with diet and exercise to improve glycemic control. This medication helps to lower blood glucose levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended dosage of Piglisil may vary depending on individual factors such as the patient’s response to treatment and other medical conditions. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Generally, the initial dose for most patients is one tablet once daily with meals. Your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage as needed to achieve optimal blood sugar control.

Mechanism of Action

Piglisil contains two active ingredients with different mechanisms of action. Pioglitazone belongs to a class of medications called thiazolidinediones. It works by increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin, allowing the cells to better utilize glucose and lower blood sugar levels. Metformin is a biguanide medication that helps reduce glucose production by the liver and improves insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach discomfort, headache, and upper respiratory tract infection. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

Serious side effects are rare but may include lactic acidosis, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by symptoms such as rapid breathing, muscle pain, weakness, and dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Drug Interactions

Piglisil may interact with certain medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. Some common drug interactions with Piglisil may include:

• Insulin or insulin secretagogues: The combination of Piglisil with insulin or insulin secretagogues may increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Close monitoring of blood sugar levels is important in such cases.
• Certain medications for heart disease: Some medications used to treat heart conditions, such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, may interact with Piglisil and affect blood sugar control. Your healthcare provider will monitor your condition closely if you are taking these medications together.

This is not an exhaustive list, and there may be other potential drug interactions. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a complete list of potential interactions.

Precautions

Before starting Piglisil, inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, including liver disease, heart disease, kidney problems, or a history of lactic acidosis. Additionally, let your healthcare provider know about all other medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.

Piglisil is contraindicated in individuals with severe kidney impairment, liver disease, or heart failure. It may also not be recommended for individuals with a history of lactic acidosis or those who consume excessive amounts of alcohol.

Storage

Patient Tips

• Take Piglisil exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider first.
• Follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly while taking Piglisil to help improve blood sugar control.
• Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly as advised by your healthcare provider.
• Keep a list of all your medications and share it with your healthcare provider to avoid potential drug interactions.
• If you experience any unusual or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.

References

• Metformin: a medicine to treat type 2 diabetes (NHS UK) [Accessed 10 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Competact 15 mg/850 mg film-coated tablets (Health Professionals SmPC) Available at:
• Metformin (Drugs.com) [Accessed 6 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• metformin (RX) [Accessed 21 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Metformin (MedlinePlus) [Accessed 2 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• LaMoia TE, Shulman GI. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Metformin Action. Endocr Rev. 2021 Jan 28;42(1):77-96. doi: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa023. [Accessed 21 Jun. 2024] Available at: