Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Voglimac 0.2 Tablet
Voglimac 0.2 Tablet is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. The active ingredient in this tablet is voglibose (0.2 mg).
Active Ingredient
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Voglibose: This is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. It works by slowing down the action of certain enzymes in the intestines that break down carbohydrates. By doing so, it delays the digestion and absorption of glucose (sugar) from the food you eat. This helps to prevent a sharp spike in blood sugar levels after meals.
Uses
Voglimac 0.2 Tablet is primarily used to:
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Control blood sugar spikes after meals: It is particularly effective at managing post-prandial (after-meal) hyperglycemia.
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Prevent long-term complications of diabetes: By helping to keep blood sugar levels in check, it reduces the risk of serious, long-term complications of diabetes, such as kidney damage, nerve damage, vision problems, and cardiovascular disease.
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Be used in combination therapy: It is often prescribed as an additional medication when other anti-diabetic drugs (like metformin or sulfonylureas) are not sufficient to achieve optimal blood sugar control.
Dosage and Administration
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Always take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The dose may vary depending on your blood sugar levels and other medications you are taking.
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It is crucial to take Voglimac 0.2 Tablet with the first bite of each main meal. This is because its mechanism of action is dependent on the presence of carbohydrates in the intestines. Taking it at any other time will not be effective.
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Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Swallow it whole with a glass of water.
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Do not stop taking the medication suddenly, even if you feel well, without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Voglimac are related to its effect on the digestion of carbohydrates. These can include:
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Flatulence (gas)
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Abdominal bloating or discomfort
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Diarrhea
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Nausea
These side effects are generally mild and tend to decrease over time as your body adjusts to the medication. It's important to note that because voglibose does not increase insulin production, it has a lower risk of causing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) when used alone. However, if it is used in combination with other drugs like sulfonylureas or insulin, the risk of hypoglycemia increases.
Important Precautions
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Medical History: Inform your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver or kidney problems, a history of inflammatory bowel disease, or any gastrointestinal conditions.
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Diet: This medication works best when combined with a healthy diet that includes complex carbohydrates.
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Hypoglycemia: If you experience low blood sugar while on voglibose and another diabetes medication, it's important to treat it with glucose tablets or gel, as sugar or sugary drinks may not work as quickly due to the medication's effect on carbohydrate absorption.
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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: This medication is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
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Alcohol: Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on this medication.