VELMETIA Sitagliptin Phosphate + Metformin Hydrochloride Film Coated Tablet 50 mg / 1 g
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DESCRIPTION
VELMETIA is a fixed dose combination oral antidiabetic medication containing Sitagliptin Phosphate and Metformin Hydrochloride.
• Sitagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP 4) inhibitor that increases incretin hormone levels, enhancing glucose dependent insulin secretion and reducing glucagon release.
• Metformin is a biguanide that decreases hepatic glucose production and improves peripheral insulin sensitivity.
Together, they provide complementary mechanisms to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
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USES
• Management of type 2 diabetes mellitus
• Improvement of glycemic control in patients inadequately controlled on metformin alone
• Combination therapy when both sitagliptin and metformin are appropriate
• Adjunct to diet and exercise to help control blood glucose levels
Not indicated for type 1 diabetes mellitus or diabetic ketoacidosis.
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DOSAGE
Use strictly as directed by a physician.
• Adults: 1 film coated tablet once or twice daily, depending on prior therapy and glycemic control
• The dose is individualized based on blood glucose response and patient tolerability
Administration:
• Take with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects
• Swallow tablet whole with water
• Do not crush or chew
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PRECAUTIONS
• Assess renal function before initiation and periodically thereafter
• Metformin carries a rare risk of lactic acidosis, especially in patients with renal impairment, dehydration, severe infection, or hypoxia
• Temporarily discontinue before major surgery or radiologic procedures involving iodinated contrast media, as advised
• Sitagliptin has been associated (rarely) with pancreatitis; discontinue if severe abdominal pain occurs
• Risk of hypoglycemia is increased when used with insulin or sulfonylureas
• Avoid excessive alcohol intake
• Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if clearly prescribed
• Adjust dose or avoid use in patients with significant renal impairment
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SIDE EFFECTS
• Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort)
• Headache
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Nasopharyngitis
• Hypoglycemia (more likely when combined with other antidiabetic agents)
• Rare but serious: pancreatitis, lactic acidosis, severe allergic reactions
Most gastrointestinal side effects improve with continued use and taking the medication with meals.
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STORAGE
• Store below 30 °C
• Protect from moisture and direct sunlight
• Keep tablets in a tightly closed container
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use beyond the expiration date