ADGLIM 4 Tablets

What is ADGLIM 4

ADGLIM 4 is a prescription oral antidiabetic medication that contains Glimepiride 4 mg as its active ingredient. It belongs to the class of drugs known as sulfonylureas, which are used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (non-insulin-dependent diabetes). ADGLIM 4 is intended to help lower blood glucose levels in patients whose diabetes is not adequately controlled by diet and exercise alone.

• Brand Name: ADGLIM 4
• Generic Name: Glimepiride
• Form: Tablets
• Strength: 4 mg
• Packaging: 30 tablets (10s Blister x 3)

ADGLIM 4 is commonly used either as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic medications such as metformin or insulin, depending on the patient's blood glucose profile and overall treatment response. Regular blood glucose monitoring and adherence to a suitable lifestyle are essential for its effectiveness.

How to use ADGLIM 4

Using ADGLIM 4 correctly is crucial for achieving optimal blood glucose control and reducing the risk of hypoglycemia. Follow your doctor’s prescription carefully.

• Dosage and Timing: Usually taken once daily with breakfast or the first main meal of the day to reduce the risk of low blood sugar levels.
• Swallow Whole: The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break it unless advised otherwise by your physician.
• Consistency: Take the medication at the same time each day to maintain steady levels of the drug in your bloodstream.
• Food Intake: Ensure you eat properly before taking the dose. Skipping meals can increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
• Missed Dose: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Monitoring: Regularly monitor your blood glucose levels as advised by your healthcare provider to assess the medication’s effectiveness.
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking ADGLIM 4 as it may increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Always consult your physician or diabetes educator for tailored guidance, especially if there are changes in your diet, activity levels, or other medications.

Mode of Action ADGLIM 4

Glimepiride, the active component in ADGLIM 4, exerts its antidiabetic effect through multiple mechanisms primarily targeting insulin secretion and sensitivity.

• Stimulates Pancreatic Beta Cells: Glimepiride enhances insulin secretion by stimulating pancreatic beta cells. It binds to ATP-sensitive potassium channels on the beta-cell membrane, causing depolarization and subsequent insulin release.
• Improves Peripheral Insulin Sensitivity: It also enhances the sensitivity of peripheral tissues (muscle, fat) to insulin, improving glucose uptake and utilization by these tissues.
• Suppresses Hepatic Glucose Output: By indirectly modulating hepatic function, glimepiride helps reduce excessive glucose production by the liver.
• Long Duration of Action: Due to its potent and prolonged insulinotropic activity, glimepiride provides effective 24-hour blood sugar control with a single daily dose.
• Lower Hypoglycemia Risk: Compared to older sulfonylureas, glimepiride has a lower tendency to cause severe hypoglycemia, particularly when used appropriately and titrated carefully.

Overall, ADGLIM 4 works by promoting a more physiologic release of insulin and enhancing insulin action, making it a valuable agent in managing type 2 diabetes.

ADGLIM 4 Interactions ADGLIM 4

ADGLIM 4 may interact with several medications, potentially enhancing or diminishing its hypoglycemic effect or increasing the risk of side effects. Always inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking.

• Drugs That Increase Hypoglycemic Effect:
  • Insulin and other oral hypoglycemics (e.g., metformin)
  • ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril)
  • Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol – may also mask hypoglycemia symptoms)
  • NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen)
  • Fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin)
• Drugs That Reduce Glimepiride’s Effectiveness:
  • Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone)
  • Diuretics (e.g., thiazides)
  • Thyroid hormones
  • Oral contraceptives
• Alcohol: May potentiate or reduce the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride unpredictably.
• Anticoagulants: Warfarin and other coumarins may have altered effects when co-administered with glimepiride.

Close monitoring of blood glucose levels and possible dose adjustments are essential when starting or stopping any of these medications.

Dosage of ADGLIM 4

The dosage of ADGLIM 4 should be individualized based on the patient’s clinical condition, blood glucose monitoring, and response to treatment.

• Initial Dose: Typically, treatment is started at 1 mg to 2 mg once daily, with gradual titration depending on the patient’s blood glucose response.
• Maintenance Dose: The usual maintenance dose ranges from 1 mg to 4 mg daily. In this case, ADGLIM 4 contains 4 mg and is generally prescribed to patients requiring a higher therapeutic dose.
• Maximum Dose: Should not exceed 8 mg per day.
• Administration: Should be taken with or just before the first main meal of the day.
• Elderly or Renal-Impaired Patients: Start with a lower dose (e.g., 1 mg) and monitor closely due to increased sensitivity to hypoglycemia.
• In Combination Therapy: When used with other antidiabetic agents (e.g., metformin, insulin), dosage adjustments of both drugs may be necessary.

Regular glucose monitoring and medical supervision are vital to avoid hypoglycemia or inadequate control of blood sugar.

Possible side effects of ADGLIM 4

Like all medications, ADGLIM 4 may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and temporary, but some may require medical attention.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) – symptoms include sweating, dizziness, hunger, and confusion
  • Weight gain
  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Headache
• Uncommon or Rare Side Effects:
  • Allergic skin reactions (rash, itching, urticaria)
  • Liver enzyme elevation or hepatitis
  • Visual disturbances (usually temporary)
  • Blood disorders (e.g., thrombocytopenia, leukopenia)
• Severe Reactions (seek immediate medical help):
  • Severe hypoglycemia with loss of consciousness
  • Anaphylactic reactions or angioedema

If you experience any side effects, especially signs of low blood sugar, consult your doctor immediately. Adjustments in diet, dosage, or other medications may be required.

ADGLIM 4 Contraindications ADGLIM 4

ADGLIM 4 is not suitable for all patients. Certain medical conditions and situations may contraindicate its use.

• Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: As it relies on pancreatic insulin secretion, it is ineffective in type 1 diabetes.
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): Not to be used in acute metabolic decompensation; insulin is preferred.
• Severe Renal or Hepatic Impairment: Increased risk of drug accumulation and hypoglycemia.
• Hypersensitivity: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to glimepiride, other sulfonylureas, or sulfonamides.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Generally avoided due to potential risk to the fetus or infant. Insulin is preferred.
• Severe Infection or Stress Conditions: Conditions requiring insulin should avoid oral hypoglycemics.

Always assess the benefit-risk profile with a healthcare provider before initiating therapy with ADGLIM 4.

Storage of ADGLIM 4

Proper storage of ADGLIM 4 ensures its stability, potency, and safety throughout its shelf life.

• Storage Temperature: Store below 25°C (77°F) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
• Packaging: Keep in the original blister packaging to protect from moisture and light.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Always store in a secure location.
• Do Not Freeze: Avoid exposure to freezing temperatures as it may compromise the tablet’s integrity.
• Expiration Date: Check the expiration date before use. Do not use if expired.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired medicine according to local pharmacy guidelines. Do not flush into wastewater or throw into household waste.

Safe and appropriate storage practices help maintain the effectiveness and safety of ADGLIM 4 throughout its use.