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Obeticholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA, cholestatic liver disease & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists

Obeticholic Acid is an agonist for FXR, a nuclear receptor expressed in the liver and intestine. FXR is a key regulator of bile acid, inflammatory, fibrotic, and metabolic pathways. FXR activation decreases the intracellular hepatocyte concentrations of bile acids by suppressing de novo synthesis from cholesterol as well as by increased transport of bile acids out of the hepatocytes. These mechanisms limit the overall size of the circulating bile acid pool while promoting choleresis, thus reducing hepatic exposure to bile acids.

Starting Dosage: The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 5 mg orally once daily in adult patients who have not achieved an adequate biochemical response to an appropriate dosage of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) for at least 1 year or are intolerant to UDCA.

Dosage Titration: If an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once daily, and the patient is tolerating Obeticholic Acid, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily.

Maximum Dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 10 mg once daily.

Management of Patients with Intolerable Pruritus on Obeticholic Acid: For patients with intolerable pruritus on Obeticholic Acid, consider one or more of the following:

Add an antihistamine or bile acid binding resin. Reduce the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to:

• 5 mg every other day, for patients intolerant to 5 mg once daily
• 5 mg once daily, for patients intolerant to 10 mg once daily

Temporarily interrupt Obeticholic Acid dosing for up to 2 weeks followed by restarting at a reduced dosage

Increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily, as tolerated, to achieve optimal response. Consider discontinuing Obeticholic Acid treatment in patients who continue to experience persistent, intolerable pruritus.

The most common side effects of Obeticholic Acid include: Pruritus, Fatigue & Stomach pain and discomfort. Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components & in patients with complete biliary obstruction.

The following clinically significant reactions are described:

• Liver-Related Adverse Reactions
• Severe Pruritus
• Reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C)

Special monitoring is essential for the patient with such type of problems

Bile Acid Binding Resins: Bile acid binding resins such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam adsorb and reduce bile acid absorption and may reduce the absorption, systemic exposure, and efficacy of Obeticholic Acid. If taking a bile acid binding resin, take Obeticholic Acid at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.

Warfarin: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) decreased following co-administration of warfarin and Obeticholic Acid. Monitor INR and adjust the dosage of warfarin, as needed, to maintain the target INR range when co-administering Obeticholic Acid and warfarin.

CYP1A2 Substrates with Narrow Therapeutic Index: Obeticholic Acid may increase the exposure to concomitant drugs that are CYP1A2 substrates. Therapeutic monitoring of CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

The limited available human data on the use of Obeticholic Acid during pregnancy are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk.There is no information on the presence of Obeticholic Acid in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant or the effects on milk production.

Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is recommended in elderly patientless than 65 years of age.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Use in Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Obeticholic Acid has not been studied in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the population pharmacokinetic analysis, an eGFR greater than 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 did not have a meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic Acid and its conjugated metabolites.

Use in Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function: Obeticholic Acid is metabolized in the liver. Plasma exposure to Obeticholic Acid and its active conjugates, increases significantly in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Classes B and C).The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid for moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment is 5 mg once weekly. If an adequate reduction in ALP and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once weekly, and the patient is tolerating the drug, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 5 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) and subsequently to 10 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) depending on response and tolerability.

In PBC patients who received Obeticholic Acid 25 mg once daily (2.5 times the highestrecommended dosage) or 50 mg once daily (5 times the highest recommended dosage), a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of liver-related adverse reactions, including elevations in liver biochemical tests, ascites, jaundice, portal hypertension, and primary biliary cholangitis flare, was reported. In the case of over dosage, patients should be carefully observed and supportive care administered, as appropriate.

Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children

Obeticholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA, cholestatic liver disease & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists

Obeticholic Acid is an agonist for FXR, a nuclear receptor expressed in the liver and intestine. FXR is a key regulator of bile acid, inflammatory, fibrotic, and metabolic pathways. FXR activation decreases the intracellular hepatocyte concentrations of bile acids by suppressing de novo synthesis from cholesterol as well as by increased transport of bile acids out of the hepatocytes. These mechanisms limit the overall size of the circulating bile acid pool while promoting choleresis, thus reducing hepatic exposure to bile acids.

Starting Dosage: The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 5 mg orally once daily in adult patients who have not achieved an adequate biochemical response to an appropriate dosage of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) for at least 1 year or are intolerant to UDCA.

Dosage Titration: If an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once daily, and the patient is tolerating Obeticholic Acid, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily.

Maximum Dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 10 mg once daily.

Management of Patients with Intolerable Pruritus on Obeticholic Acid: For patients with intolerable pruritus on Obeticholic Acid, consider one or more of the following:

Add an antihistamine or bile acid binding resin. Reduce the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to:

• 5 mg every other day, for patients intolerant to 5 mg once daily
• 5 mg once daily, for patients intolerant to 10 mg once daily

Temporarily interrupt Obeticholic Acid dosing for up to 2 weeks followed by restarting at a reduced dosage

Increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily, as tolerated, to achieve optimal response. Consider discontinuing Obeticholic Acid treatment in patients who continue to experience persistent, intolerable pruritus.

The most common side effects of Obeticholic Acid include: Pruritus, Fatigue & Stomach pain and discomfort. Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components & in patients with complete biliary obstruction.

The following clinically significant reactions are described:

• Liver-Related Adverse Reactions
• Severe Pruritus
• Reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C)

Special monitoring is essential for the patient with such type of problems

Bile Acid Binding Resins: Bile acid binding resins such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam adsorb and reduce bile acid absorption and may reduce the absorption, systemic exposure, and efficacy of Obeticholic Acid. If taking a bile acid binding resin, take Obeticholic Acid at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.

Warfarin: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) decreased following co-administration of warfarin and Obeticholic Acid. Monitor INR and adjust the dosage of warfarin, as needed, to maintain the target INR range when co-administering Obeticholic Acid and warfarin.

CYP1A2 Substrates with Narrow Therapeutic Index: Obeticholic Acid may increase the exposure to concomitant drugs that are CYP1A2 substrates. Therapeutic monitoring of CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

The limited available human data on the use of Obeticholic Acid during pregnancy are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk.There is no information on the presence of Obeticholic Acid in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant or the effects on milk production.

Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is recommended in elderly patientless than 65 years of age.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Use in Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Obeticholic Acid has not been studied in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the population pharmacokinetic analysis, an eGFR greater than 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 did not have a meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic Acid and its conjugated metabolites.

Use in Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function: Obeticholic Acid is metabolized in the liver. Plasma exposure to Obeticholic Acid and its active conjugates, increases significantly in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Classes B and C).The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid for moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment is 5 mg once weekly. If an adequate reduction in ALP and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once weekly, and the patient is tolerating the drug, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 5 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) and subsequently to 10 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) depending on response and tolerability.

In PBC patients who received Obeticholic Acid 25 mg once daily (2.5 times the highestrecommended dosage) or 50 mg once daily (5 times the highest recommended dosage), a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of liver-related adverse reactions, including elevations in liver biochemical tests, ascites, jaundice, portal hypertension, and primary biliary cholangitis flare, was reported. In the case of over dosage, patients should be carefully observed and supportive care administered, as appropriate.

Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children

Obeticholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA, cholestatic liver disease & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists

Obeticholic Acid is an agonist for FXR, a nuclear receptor expressed in the liver and intestine. FXR is a key regulator of bile acid, inflammatory, fibrotic, and metabolic pathways. FXR activation decreases the intracellular hepatocyte concentrations of bile acids by suppressing de novo synthesis from cholesterol as well as by increased transport of bile acids out of the hepatocytes. These mechanisms limit the overall size of the circulating bile acid pool while promoting choleresis, thus reducing hepatic exposure to bile acids.

Starting Dosage: The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 5 mg orally once daily in adult patients who have not achieved an adequate biochemical response to an appropriate dosage of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) for at least 1 year or are intolerant to UDCA.

Dosage Titration: If an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once daily, and the patient is tolerating Obeticholic Acid, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily.

Maximum Dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 10 mg once daily.

Management of Patients with Intolerable Pruritus on Obeticholic Acid: For patients with intolerable pruritus on Obeticholic Acid, consider one or more of the following:

Add an antihistamine or bile acid binding resin. Reduce the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to:

• 5 mg every other day, for patients intolerant to 5 mg once daily
• 5 mg once daily, for patients intolerant to 10 mg once daily

Temporarily interrupt Obeticholic Acid dosing for up to 2 weeks followed by restarting at a reduced dosage

Increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily, as tolerated, to achieve optimal response. Consider discontinuing Obeticholic Acid treatment in patients who continue to experience persistent, intolerable pruritus.

The most common side effects of Obeticholic Acid include: Pruritus, Fatigue & Stomach pain and discomfort. Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components & in patients with complete biliary obstruction.

The following clinically significant reactions are described:

• Liver-Related Adverse Reactions
• Severe Pruritus
• Reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C)

Special monitoring is essential for the patient with such type of problems

Bile Acid Binding Resins: Bile acid binding resins such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam adsorb and reduce bile acid absorption and may reduce the absorption, systemic exposure, and efficacy of Obeticholic Acid. If taking a bile acid binding resin, take Obeticholic Acid at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.

Warfarin: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) decreased following co-administration of warfarin and Obeticholic Acid. Monitor INR and adjust the dosage of warfarin, as needed, to maintain the target INR range when co-administering Obeticholic Acid and warfarin.

CYP1A2 Substrates with Narrow Therapeutic Index: Obeticholic Acid may increase the exposure to concomitant drugs that are CYP1A2 substrates. Therapeutic monitoring of CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

The limited available human data on the use of Obeticholic Acid during pregnancy are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk.There is no information on the presence of Obeticholic Acid in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant or the effects on milk production.

Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is recommended in elderly patientless than 65 years of age.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Use in Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Obeticholic Acid has not been studied in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the population pharmacokinetic analysis, an eGFR greater than 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 did not have a meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic Acid and its conjugated metabolites.

Use in Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function: Obeticholic Acid is metabolized in the liver. Plasma exposure to Obeticholic Acid and its active conjugates, increases significantly in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Classes B and C).The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid for moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment is 5 mg once weekly. If an adequate reduction in ALP and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once weekly, and the patient is tolerating the drug, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 5 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) and subsequently to 10 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) depending on response and tolerability.

In PBC patients who received Obeticholic Acid 25 mg once daily (2.5 times the highestrecommended dosage) or 50 mg once daily (5 times the highest recommended dosage), a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of liver-related adverse reactions, including elevations in liver biochemical tests, ascites, jaundice, portal hypertension, and primary biliary cholangitis flare, was reported. In the case of over dosage, patients should be carefully observed and supportive care administered, as appropriate.

Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children

Biguanides

Metformin is a biguanide type oral antihyperglycemic drug used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It lowers both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Its mechanism of action is different from those of sulfonylureas and it does not produce hypoglycemia. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by an increase in peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.

Metformin immediate release tablet: Dosage of Metformin Hydrochloride must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses.

• Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day or 850 mg once a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly or 850 mg every 2 weeks, up to a total of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses. For those patients requiring additional glycemic control, Glucomin may be given to a maximum daily dose of 2550 mg per day. Doses above 2000 mg may be better tolerated given three times a day with meals.
• Children: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly up to a maximum of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses.

Metformin extended release tablet: Swallow Metformin XR tablet whole and never crush, cut or chew.

• Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin XR is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal. Dose should be increased in increments of 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily with the evening meal, alternatively increased to 1000 mg twice daily taken with meal. Patient receiving Metformin immediate release tablet may be switched to Metformin extended release tablet up to a maximum recommended daily dose.
• Children: Metformin extended release tablet has not been studied in children.
• Renal impaired patient: Do not use Metformin in patients with eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m². Asses risk/benefit of counting if eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m².

Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Not known: Hemolytic anemia

Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)

Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy

Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.

Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.

Metformin Hydrochloride is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney and the risk of Metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis increases with the degree of impairment of renal function. Metformin may lower vitamin B12 level. It also increases risk of hypoglycemia when use in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogue.

Co-administration with Carbonic anhydrase (Topiramate, Zonisamide) may increase risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs (Ranolazine, Dolutegravir, Cimetidine) that reduce Metformin clearance may increase the accumulation of Metformin. Alcohol can potentiate the effect of Metformin on lactate metabolism.

Pregnancy: Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy (gestational or permanent) is associated with an increased risk of congenital abnormalities and perinatal mortality. When the patient plans to become pregnant and during pregnancy, it is recommended that diabetes is not treated with metformin but insulin be used to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, to reduce the risk of malformations of the foetus.

Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.

Elderly: Due to the potential for decreased renal function in elderly subjects, the metformin dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. Regular assessment of renal function is necessary.

Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.

Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.

Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:

• At least annually in patients with normal renal function,
• At least two to four times a year in patients with creatinine clearance at the lower limit of normal and in elderly subjects.

Decreased renal function in elderly subjects is frequent and asymptomatic. Special caution should be exercised in situations where renal function may become impaired, for example when initiating antihypertensive therapy or diuretic therapy and when starting therapy with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). GFR should be assessed before treatment initiation and regularly thereafter. Metformin is contraindicate in patients with GFR<30 ml/min and should be temporarily discontinued in the presence of conditions that alter renal function.

Hypoglycemia has not been seen with Metformin doses up to 85 gm, although lactic acidosis has occurred in such circumstances. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency and must be treated in hospital. The most effective method to remove lactate and Metformin is hemodialysis.

Keep below 30°C temperature, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Biguanides

Metformin is a biguanide type oral antihyperglycemic drug used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It lowers both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Its mechanism of action is different from those of sulfonylureas and it does not produce hypoglycemia. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by an increase in peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.

Metformin immediate release tablet: Dosage of Metformin Hydrochloride must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses.

• Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day or 850 mg once a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly or 850 mg every 2 weeks, up to a total of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses. For those patients requiring additional glycemic control, Glucomin may be given to a maximum daily dose of 2550 mg per day. Doses above 2000 mg may be better tolerated given three times a day with meals.
• Children: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly up to a maximum of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses.

Metformin extended release tablet: Swallow Metformin XR tablet whole and never crush, cut or chew.

• Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin XR is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal. Dose should be increased in increments of 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily with the evening meal, alternatively increased to 1000 mg twice daily taken with meal. Patient receiving Metformin immediate release tablet may be switched to Metformin extended release tablet up to a maximum recommended daily dose.
• Children: Metformin extended release tablet has not been studied in children.
• Renal impaired patient: Do not use Metformin in patients with eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m². Asses risk/benefit of counting if eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m².

Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Not known: Hemolytic anemia

Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)

Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy

Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.

Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.

Metformin Hydrochloride is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney and the risk of Metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis increases with the degree of impairment of renal function. Metformin may lower vitamin B12 level. It also increases risk of hypoglycemia when use in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogue.

Co-administration with Carbonic anhydrase (Topiramate, Zonisamide) may increase risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs (Ranolazine, Dolutegravir, Cimetidine) that reduce Metformin clearance may increase the accumulation of Metformin. Alcohol can potentiate the effect of Metformin on lactate metabolism.

Pregnancy: Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy (gestational or permanent) is associated with an increased risk of congenital abnormalities and perinatal mortality. When the patient plans to become pregnant and during pregnancy, it is recommended that diabetes is not treated with metformin but insulin be used to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, to reduce the risk of malformations of the foetus.

Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.

Elderly: Due to the potential for decreased renal function in elderly subjects, the metformin dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. Regular assessment of renal function is necessary.

Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.

Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.

Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:

• At least annually in patients with normal renal function,
• At least two to four times a year in patients with creatinine clearance at the lower limit of normal and in elderly subjects.

Decreased renal function in elderly subjects is frequent and asymptomatic. Special caution should be exercised in situations where renal function may become impaired, for example when initiating antihypertensive therapy or diuretic therapy and when starting therapy with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). GFR should be assessed before treatment initiation and regularly thereafter. Metformin is contraindicate in patients with GFR<30 ml/min and should be temporarily discontinued in the presence of conditions that alter renal function.

Hypoglycemia has not been seen with Metformin doses up to 85 gm, although lactic acidosis has occurred in such circumstances. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency and must be treated in hospital. The most effective method to remove lactate and Metformin is hemodialysis.

Keep below 30°C temperature, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Obeticholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA, cholestatic liver disease & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists

Obeticholic Acid is an agonist for FXR, a nuclear receptor expressed in the liver and intestine. FXR is a key regulator of bile acid, inflammatory, fibrotic, and metabolic pathways. FXR activation decreases the intracellular hepatocyte concentrations of bile acids by suppressing de novo synthesis from cholesterol as well as by increased transport of bile acids out of the hepatocytes. These mechanisms limit the overall size of the circulating bile acid pool while promoting choleresis, thus reducing hepatic exposure to bile acids.

Starting Dosage: The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 5 mg orally once daily in adult patients who have not achieved an adequate biochemical response to an appropriate dosage of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) for at least 1 year or are intolerant to UDCA.

Dosage Titration: If an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once daily, and the patient is tolerating Obeticholic Acid, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily.

Maximum Dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 10 mg once daily.

Management of Patients with Intolerable Pruritus on Obeticholic Acid: For patients with intolerable pruritus on Obeticholic Acid, consider one or more of the following:

Add an antihistamine or bile acid binding resin. Reduce the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to:

• 5 mg every other day, for patients intolerant to 5 mg once daily
• 5 mg once daily, for patients intolerant to 10 mg once daily

Temporarily interrupt Obeticholic Acid dosing for up to 2 weeks followed by restarting at a reduced dosage

Increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily, as tolerated, to achieve optimal response. Consider discontinuing Obeticholic Acid treatment in patients who continue to experience persistent, intolerable pruritus.

The most common side effects of Obeticholic Acid include: Pruritus, Fatigue & Stomach pain and discomfort. Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components & in patients with complete biliary obstruction.

The following clinically significant reactions are described:

• Liver-Related Adverse Reactions
• Severe Pruritus
• Reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C)

Special monitoring is essential for the patient with such type of problems

Bile Acid Binding Resins: Bile acid binding resins such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam adsorb and reduce bile acid absorption and may reduce the absorption, systemic exposure, and efficacy of Obeticholic Acid. If taking a bile acid binding resin, take Obeticholic Acid at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.

Warfarin: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) decreased following co-administration of warfarin and Obeticholic Acid. Monitor INR and adjust the dosage of warfarin, as needed, to maintain the target INR range when co-administering Obeticholic Acid and warfarin.

CYP1A2 Substrates with Narrow Therapeutic Index: Obeticholic Acid may increase the exposure to concomitant drugs that are CYP1A2 substrates. Therapeutic monitoring of CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

The limited available human data on the use of Obeticholic Acid during pregnancy are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk.There is no information on the presence of Obeticholic Acid in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant or the effects on milk production.

Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is recommended in elderly patientless than 65 years of age.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Use in Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Obeticholic Acid has not been studied in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the population pharmacokinetic analysis, an eGFR greater than 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 did not have a meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic Acid and its conjugated metabolites.

Use in Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function: Obeticholic Acid is metabolized in the liver. Plasma exposure to Obeticholic Acid and its active conjugates, increases significantly in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Classes B and C).The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid for moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment is 5 mg once weekly. If an adequate reduction in ALP and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once weekly, and the patient is tolerating the drug, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 5 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) and subsequently to 10 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) depending on response and tolerability.

In PBC patients who received Obeticholic Acid 25 mg once daily (2.5 times the highestrecommended dosage) or 50 mg once daily (5 times the highest recommended dosage), a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of liver-related adverse reactions, including elevations in liver biochemical tests, ascites, jaundice, portal hypertension, and primary biliary cholangitis flare, was reported. In the case of over dosage, patients should be carefully observed and supportive care administered, as appropriate.

Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children

Obeticholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA, cholestatic liver disease & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists

Obeticholic Acid is an agonist for FXR, a nuclear receptor expressed in the liver and intestine. FXR is a key regulator of bile acid, inflammatory, fibrotic, and metabolic pathways. FXR activation decreases the intracellular hepatocyte concentrations of bile acids by suppressing de novo synthesis from cholesterol as well as by increased transport of bile acids out of the hepatocytes. These mechanisms limit the overall size of the circulating bile acid pool while promoting choleresis, thus reducing hepatic exposure to bile acids.

Starting Dosage: The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 5 mg orally once daily in adult patients who have not achieved an adequate biochemical response to an appropriate dosage of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) for at least 1 year or are intolerant to UDCA.

Dosage Titration: If an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once daily, and the patient is tolerating Obeticholic Acid, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily.

Maximum Dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 10 mg once daily.

Management of Patients with Intolerable Pruritus on Obeticholic Acid: For patients with intolerable pruritus on Obeticholic Acid, consider one or more of the following:

Add an antihistamine or bile acid binding resin. Reduce the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to:

• 5 mg every other day, for patients intolerant to 5 mg once daily
• 5 mg once daily, for patients intolerant to 10 mg once daily

Temporarily interrupt Obeticholic Acid dosing for up to 2 weeks followed by restarting at a reduced dosage

Increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily, as tolerated, to achieve optimal response. Consider discontinuing Obeticholic Acid treatment in patients who continue to experience persistent, intolerable pruritus.

The most common side effects of Obeticholic Acid include: Pruritus, Fatigue & Stomach pain and discomfort. Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components & in patients with complete biliary obstruction.

The following clinically significant reactions are described:

• Liver-Related Adverse Reactions
• Severe Pruritus
• Reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C)

Special monitoring is essential for the patient with such type of problems

Bile Acid Binding Resins: Bile acid binding resins such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam adsorb and reduce bile acid absorption and may reduce the absorption, systemic exposure, and efficacy of Obeticholic Acid. If taking a bile acid binding resin, take Obeticholic Acid at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.

Warfarin: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) decreased following co-administration of warfarin and Obeticholic Acid. Monitor INR and adjust the dosage of warfarin, as needed, to maintain the target INR range when co-administering Obeticholic Acid and warfarin.

CYP1A2 Substrates with Narrow Therapeutic Index: Obeticholic Acid may increase the exposure to concomitant drugs that are CYP1A2 substrates. Therapeutic monitoring of CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

The limited available human data on the use of Obeticholic Acid during pregnancy are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk.There is no information on the presence of Obeticholic Acid in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant or the effects on milk production.

Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is recommended in elderly patientless than 65 years of age.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Use in Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Obeticholic Acid has not been studied in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the population pharmacokinetic analysis, an eGFR greater than 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 did not have a meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic Acid and its conjugated metabolites.

Use in Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function: Obeticholic Acid is metabolized in the liver. Plasma exposure to Obeticholic Acid and its active conjugates, increases significantly in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Classes B and C).The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid for moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment is 5 mg once weekly. If an adequate reduction in ALP and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once weekly, and the patient is tolerating the drug, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 5 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) and subsequently to 10 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) depending on response and tolerability.

In PBC patients who received Obeticholic Acid 25 mg once daily (2.5 times the highestrecommended dosage) or 50 mg once daily (5 times the highest recommended dosage), a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of liver-related adverse reactions, including elevations in liver biochemical tests, ascites, jaundice, portal hypertension, and primary biliary cholangitis flare, was reported. In the case of over dosage, patients should be carefully observed and supportive care administered, as appropriate.

Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children

Biguanides

Metformin is a biguanide type oral antihyperglycemic drug used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It lowers both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Its mechanism of action is different from those of sulfonylureas and it does not produce hypoglycemia. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by an increase in peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.

Metformin immediate release tablet: Dosage of Metformin Hydrochloride must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses.

• Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day or 850 mg once a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly or 850 mg every 2 weeks, up to a total of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses. For those patients requiring additional glycemic control, Glucomin may be given to a maximum daily dose of 2550 mg per day. Doses above 2000 mg may be better tolerated given three times a day with meals.
• Children: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly up to a maximum of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses.

Metformin extended release tablet: Swallow Metformin XR tablet whole and never crush, cut or chew.

• Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin XR is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal. Dose should be increased in increments of 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily with the evening meal, alternatively increased to 1000 mg twice daily taken with meal. Patient receiving Metformin immediate release tablet may be switched to Metformin extended release tablet up to a maximum recommended daily dose.
• Children: Metformin extended release tablet has not been studied in children.
• Renal impaired patient: Do not use Metformin in patients with eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m². Asses risk/benefit of counting if eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m².

Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Not known: Hemolytic anemia

Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)

Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy

Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.

Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.

Metformin Hydrochloride is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney and the risk of Metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis increases with the degree of impairment of renal function. Metformin may lower vitamin B12 level. It also increases risk of hypoglycemia when use in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogue.

Co-administration with Carbonic anhydrase (Topiramate, Zonisamide) may increase risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs (Ranolazine, Dolutegravir, Cimetidine) that reduce Metformin clearance may increase the accumulation of Metformin. Alcohol can potentiate the effect of Metformin on lactate metabolism.

Pregnancy: Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy (gestational or permanent) is associated with an increased risk of congenital abnormalities and perinatal mortality. When the patient plans to become pregnant and during pregnancy, it is recommended that diabetes is not treated with metformin but insulin be used to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, to reduce the risk of malformations of the foetus.

Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.

Elderly: Due to the potential for decreased renal function in elderly subjects, the metformin dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. Regular assessment of renal function is necessary.

Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.

Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.

Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:

• At least annually in patients with normal renal function,
• At least two to four times a year in patients with creatinine clearance at the lower limit of normal and in elderly subjects.

Decreased renal function in elderly subjects is frequent and asymptomatic. Special caution should be exercised in situations where renal function may become impaired, for example when initiating antihypertensive therapy or diuretic therapy and when starting therapy with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). GFR should be assessed before treatment initiation and regularly thereafter. Metformin is contraindicate in patients with GFR<30 ml/min and should be temporarily discontinued in the presence of conditions that alter renal function.

Hypoglycemia has not been seen with Metformin doses up to 85 gm, although lactic acidosis has occurred in such circumstances. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency and must be treated in hospital. The most effective method to remove lactate and Metformin is hemodialysis.

Keep below 30°C temperature, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Biguanides

Metformin is a biguanide type oral antihyperglycemic drug used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It lowers both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Its mechanism of action is different from those of sulfonylureas and it does not produce hypoglycemia. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by an increase in peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.

Metformin immediate release tablet: Dosage of Metformin Hydrochloride must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses.

• Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day or 850 mg once a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly or 850 mg every 2 weeks, up to a total of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses. For those patients requiring additional glycemic control, Glucomin may be given to a maximum daily dose of 2550 mg per day. Doses above 2000 mg may be better tolerated given three times a day with meals.
• Children: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly up to a maximum of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses.

Metformin extended release tablet: Swallow Metformin XR tablet whole and never crush, cut or chew.

• Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin XR is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal. Dose should be increased in increments of 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily with the evening meal, alternatively increased to 1000 mg twice daily taken with meal. Patient receiving Metformin immediate release tablet may be switched to Metformin extended release tablet up to a maximum recommended daily dose.
• Children: Metformin extended release tablet has not been studied in children.
• Renal impaired patient: Do not use Metformin in patients with eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m². Asses risk/benefit of counting if eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m².

Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Not known: Hemolytic anemia

Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)

Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy

Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.

Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.

Metformin Hydrochloride is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney and the risk of Metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis increases with the degree of impairment of renal function. Metformin may lower vitamin B12 level. It also increases risk of hypoglycemia when use in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogue.

Co-administration with Carbonic anhydrase (Topiramate, Zonisamide) may increase risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs (Ranolazine, Dolutegravir, Cimetidine) that reduce Metformin clearance may increase the accumulation of Metformin. Alcohol can potentiate the effect of Metformin on lactate metabolism.

Pregnancy: Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy (gestational or permanent) is associated with an increased risk of congenital abnormalities and perinatal mortality. When the patient plans to become pregnant and during pregnancy, it is recommended that diabetes is not treated with metformin but insulin be used to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, to reduce the risk of malformations of the foetus.

Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.

Elderly: Due to the potential for decreased renal function in elderly subjects, the metformin dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. Regular assessment of renal function is necessary.

Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.

Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.

Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:

• At least annually in patients with normal renal function,
• At least two to four times a year in patients with creatinine clearance at the lower limit of normal and in elderly subjects.

Decreased renal function in elderly subjects is frequent and asymptomatic. Special caution should be exercised in situations where renal function may become impaired, for example when initiating antihypertensive therapy or diuretic therapy and when starting therapy with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). GFR should be assessed before treatment initiation and regularly thereafter. Metformin is contraindicate in patients with GFR<30 ml/min and should be temporarily discontinued in the presence of conditions that alter renal function.

Hypoglycemia has not been seen with Metformin doses up to 85 gm, although lactic acidosis has occurred in such circumstances. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency and must be treated in hospital. The most effective method to remove lactate and Metformin is hemodialysis.

Keep below 30°C temperature, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Obeticholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA, cholestatic liver disease & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists

Obeticholic Acid is an agonist for FXR, a nuclear receptor expressed in the liver and intestine. FXR is a key regulator of bile acid, inflammatory, fibrotic, and metabolic pathways. FXR activation decreases the intracellular hepatocyte concentrations of bile acids by suppressing de novo synthesis from cholesterol as well as by increased transport of bile acids out of the hepatocytes. These mechanisms limit the overall size of the circulating bile acid pool while promoting choleresis, thus reducing hepatic exposure to bile acids.

Starting Dosage: The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 5 mg orally once daily in adult patients who have not achieved an adequate biochemical response to an appropriate dosage of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) for at least 1 year or are intolerant to UDCA.

Dosage Titration: If an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once daily, and the patient is tolerating Obeticholic Acid, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily.

Maximum Dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 10 mg once daily.

Management of Patients with Intolerable Pruritus on Obeticholic Acid: For patients with intolerable pruritus on Obeticholic Acid, consider one or more of the following:

Add an antihistamine or bile acid binding resin. Reduce the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to:

• 5 mg every other day, for patients intolerant to 5 mg once daily
• 5 mg once daily, for patients intolerant to 10 mg once daily

Temporarily interrupt Obeticholic Acid dosing for up to 2 weeks followed by restarting at a reduced dosage

Increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily, as tolerated, to achieve optimal response. Consider discontinuing Obeticholic Acid treatment in patients who continue to experience persistent, intolerable pruritus.

The most common side effects of Obeticholic Acid include: Pruritus, Fatigue & Stomach pain and discomfort. Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components & in patients with complete biliary obstruction.

The following clinically significant reactions are described:

• Liver-Related Adverse Reactions
• Severe Pruritus
• Reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C)

Special monitoring is essential for the patient with such type of problems

Bile Acid Binding Resins: Bile acid binding resins such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam adsorb and reduce bile acid absorption and may reduce the absorption, systemic exposure, and efficacy of Obeticholic Acid. If taking a bile acid binding resin, take Obeticholic Acid at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.

Warfarin: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) decreased following co-administration of warfarin and Obeticholic Acid. Monitor INR and adjust the dosage of warfarin, as needed, to maintain the target INR range when co-administering Obeticholic Acid and warfarin.

CYP1A2 Substrates with Narrow Therapeutic Index: Obeticholic Acid may increase the exposure to concomitant drugs that are CYP1A2 substrates. Therapeutic monitoring of CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

The limited available human data on the use of Obeticholic Acid during pregnancy are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk.There is no information on the presence of Obeticholic Acid in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant or the effects on milk production.

Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is recommended in elderly patientless than 65 years of age.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Use in Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Obeticholic Acid has not been studied in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the population pharmacokinetic analysis, an eGFR greater than 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 did not have a meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic Acid and its conjugated metabolites.

Use in Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function: Obeticholic Acid is metabolized in the liver. Plasma exposure to Obeticholic Acid and its active conjugates, increases significantly in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Classes B and C).The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid for moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment is 5 mg once weekly. If an adequate reduction in ALP and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once weekly, and the patient is tolerating the drug, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 5 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) and subsequently to 10 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) depending on response and tolerability.

In PBC patients who received Obeticholic Acid 25 mg once daily (2.5 times the highestrecommended dosage) or 50 mg once daily (5 times the highest recommended dosage), a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of liver-related adverse reactions, including elevations in liver biochemical tests, ascites, jaundice, portal hypertension, and primary biliary cholangitis flare, was reported. In the case of over dosage, patients should be carefully observed and supportive care administered, as appropriate.

Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children

Obeticholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA, cholestatic liver disease & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists

Obeticholic Acid is an agonist for FXR, a nuclear receptor expressed in the liver and intestine. FXR is a key regulator of bile acid, inflammatory, fibrotic, and metabolic pathways. FXR activation decreases the intracellular hepatocyte concentrations of bile acids by suppressing de novo synthesis from cholesterol as well as by increased transport of bile acids out of the hepatocytes. These mechanisms limit the overall size of the circulating bile acid pool while promoting choleresis, thus reducing hepatic exposure to bile acids.

Starting Dosage: The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 5 mg orally once daily in adult patients who have not achieved an adequate biochemical response to an appropriate dosage of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) for at least 1 year or are intolerant to UDCA.

Dosage Titration: If an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once daily, and the patient is tolerating Obeticholic Acid, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily.

Maximum Dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 10 mg once daily.

Management of Patients with Intolerable Pruritus on Obeticholic Acid: For patients with intolerable pruritus on Obeticholic Acid, consider one or more of the following:

Add an antihistamine or bile acid binding resin. Reduce the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to:

• 5 mg every other day, for patients intolerant to 5 mg once daily
• 5 mg once daily, for patients intolerant to 10 mg once daily

Temporarily interrupt Obeticholic Acid dosing for up to 2 weeks followed by restarting at a reduced dosage

Increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily, as tolerated, to achieve optimal response. Consider discontinuing Obeticholic Acid treatment in patients who continue to experience persistent, intolerable pruritus.

The most common side effects of Obeticholic Acid include: Pruritus, Fatigue & Stomach pain and discomfort. Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components & in patients with complete biliary obstruction.

The following clinically significant reactions are described:

• Liver-Related Adverse Reactions
• Severe Pruritus
• Reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C)

Special monitoring is essential for the patient with such type of problems

Bile Acid Binding Resins: Bile acid binding resins such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam adsorb and reduce bile acid absorption and may reduce the absorption, systemic exposure, and efficacy of Obeticholic Acid. If taking a bile acid binding resin, take Obeticholic Acid at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.

Warfarin: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) decreased following co-administration of warfarin and Obeticholic Acid. Monitor INR and adjust the dosage of warfarin, as needed, to maintain the target INR range when co-administering Obeticholic Acid and warfarin.

CYP1A2 Substrates with Narrow Therapeutic Index: Obeticholic Acid may increase the exposure to concomitant drugs that are CYP1A2 substrates. Therapeutic monitoring of CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

The limited available human data on the use of Obeticholic Acid during pregnancy are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk.There is no information on the presence of Obeticholic Acid in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant or the effects on milk production.

Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is recommended in elderly patientless than 65 years of age.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Use in Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Obeticholic Acid has not been studied in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the population pharmacokinetic analysis, an eGFR greater than 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 did not have a meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic Acid and its conjugated metabolites.

Use in Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function: Obeticholic Acid is metabolized in the liver. Plasma exposure to Obeticholic Acid and its active conjugates, increases significantly in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Classes B and C).The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid for moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment is 5 mg once weekly. If an adequate reduction in ALP and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once weekly, and the patient is tolerating the drug, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 5 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) and subsequently to 10 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) depending on response and tolerability.

In PBC patients who received Obeticholic Acid 25 mg once daily (2.5 times the highestrecommended dosage) or 50 mg once daily (5 times the highest recommended dosage), a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of liver-related adverse reactions, including elevations in liver biochemical tests, ascites, jaundice, portal hypertension, and primary biliary cholangitis flare, was reported. In the case of over dosage, patients should be carefully observed and supportive care administered, as appropriate.

Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children

Levocarnitine is indicated in-

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Heart Diseases
• Congestive Heart Failure
• Kidney Disease
• High Cholesterol
• Intermittent Claudication
• Dementia and memory impairment
• Down Syndrome
• Male infertility
• Hyperthyroidism

Drugs for muscular energy metabolism

Levocarnitine is a naturally occurring substance required in mammalian energy metabolism. It has been shown to facilitate long-chain fatty acid entry into cellular mitochondria, thereby delivering substrate for oxidation and subsequent energy production. Fatty acids are utilized as an energy substrate in all tissues except the brain. In skeletal and cardiac muscle, fatty acids are the main substrate for energy production.

Levocarnitine tablet-

• Adults: 330 mg two or three times daily. Depending on clinical response.
• Infants and children: 50 to 100 mg/kg/day in divided doses, with a maximum of 3 g/day. Dosage should begin at 50 mg/kg/day. The exact dosage will depend on clinical response.

Levocarnitine solution (For oral use only. Not for parenteral use)-

• Adults: The recommended dosage of Levocarnitine 100 ml solution is 10 to 30 ml/day. Higher doses should be administered with caution. Dosage should be started at 10 ml/day and be increased slowly while assessing tolerance and therapeutic response.
• Infants and children: The recommended dosage of Levocarnitine 100 ml solution is 50 to 100 mg/kg/day. Dosage should be started at 50 mg/kg/day and be increased slowly to a maximum of 30 ml. /day. Levocarnitine oral solution can be given from 2-spoonful to 6-spoonful in divided dose as directed by physicians. Higher doses should be administered with caution.

Note: Levocarnitine 100 ml solution may be consumed alone or dissolved in drink or other liquid food. Doses should be spaced evenly throughout the day preferably during or following meals and should be consumed slowly in order to maximize tolerance.

Generally, Levocarnitine is well tolerated. However, few side effects including transient nausea and vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhoea may occur.

Gastrointestinal reactions may result from a too rapid consumption of Levocarnitine. The safety and efficacy of oral levocarnitine has not been evaluated in patients with renal insufficiency. Chronic administration of high doses of oral levocarnitine in patients with severely compromised renal function or in ESRD patients on dialysis may result in accumulation of the potentially toxic metabolites, trimethylamine (TMA) and trimethylamine-N oxide (TMAO), since these metabolites are normally excreted in the urine.

There is no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Levocarnitine supplementation in nursing mothers has not been specifically studied. In nursing mothers receiving levocarnitine, any risks to the child of excess carnitine intake need to be weighed against the benefits of levocarnitine supplementation to the mother. Consideration may be given to discontinuation of nursing or of levocarnitine treatment.

There have been no reports of toxicity from levocarnitine overdosage.

Do not store above 30°C. Keep away from light and out of the reach of children.

Levocarnitine is indicated in-

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Heart Diseases
• Congestive Heart Failure
• Kidney Disease
• High Cholesterol
• Intermittent Claudication
• Dementia and memory impairment
• Down Syndrome
• Male infertility
• Hyperthyroidism

Drugs for muscular energy metabolism

Levocarnitine is a naturally occurring substance required in mammalian energy metabolism. It has been shown to facilitate long-chain fatty acid entry into cellular mitochondria, thereby delivering substrate for oxidation and subsequent energy production. Fatty acids are utilized as an energy substrate in all tissues except the brain. In skeletal and cardiac muscle, fatty acids are the main substrate for energy production.

Levocarnitine tablet-

• Adults: 330 mg two or three times daily. Depending on clinical response.
• Infants and children: 50 to 100 mg/kg/day in divided doses, with a maximum of 3 g/day. Dosage should begin at 50 mg/kg/day. The exact dosage will depend on clinical response.

Levocarnitine solution (For oral use only. Not for parenteral use)-

• Adults: The recommended dosage of Levocarnitine 100 ml solution is 10 to 30 ml/day. Higher doses should be administered with caution. Dosage should be started at 10 ml/day and be increased slowly while assessing tolerance and therapeutic response.
• Infants and children: The recommended dosage of Levocarnitine 100 ml solution is 50 to 100 mg/kg/day. Dosage should be started at 50 mg/kg/day and be increased slowly to a maximum of 30 ml. /day. Levocarnitine oral solution can be given from 2-spoonful to 6-spoonful in divided dose as directed by physicians. Higher doses should be administered with caution.

Note: Levocarnitine 100 ml solution may be consumed alone or dissolved in drink or other liquid food. Doses should be spaced evenly throughout the day preferably during or following meals and should be consumed slowly in order to maximize tolerance.

Generally, Levocarnitine is well tolerated. However, few side effects including transient nausea and vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhoea may occur.

Gastrointestinal reactions may result from a too rapid consumption of Levocarnitine. The safety and efficacy of oral levocarnitine has not been evaluated in patients with renal insufficiency. Chronic administration of high doses of oral levocarnitine in patients with severely compromised renal function or in ESRD patients on dialysis may result in accumulation of the potentially toxic metabolites, trimethylamine (TMA) and trimethylamine-N oxide (TMAO), since these metabolites are normally excreted in the urine.

There is no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Levocarnitine supplementation in nursing mothers has not been specifically studied. In nursing mothers receiving levocarnitine, any risks to the child of excess carnitine intake need to be weighed against the benefits of levocarnitine supplementation to the mother. Consideration may be given to discontinuation of nursing or of levocarnitine treatment.

There have been no reports of toxicity from levocarnitine overdosage.

Do not store above 30°C. Keep away from light and out of the reach of children.

This is indicated for the treatment & prevention of osteoporosis, osteomalacia, tetany, hypoparathyroidism, disorders of osteogenesis. Also used as supplement in case of inadequate intake of Calcium in childhood diet, rickets, pregnancy & lactation, elderly patients. Other indications include pancreatitis, phosphate binder in chronic renal failure etc.

Specific mineral & vitamin combined preparations

This is a Calcium and Vitamin D3 preparation where Calcium Carbonate is sourced from coral origin. The Calcium Carbonate from Coral has a chemical structure that is very similar to the composition of human bone. Coral Calcium is similar to other sources but ensures better absorption. Vitamin D3 aids in the absorption of Calcium from GI tract and helps to maintain Calcium balance in the body.

One tablet once or twice daily with plenty of water or as directed by the physician. Taking in full stomach ensures better absorption.

Flatulence, diarrhoea, constipation, upper GI discomfort etc. are rare manifestation. Hypercalcaemia due to prolong use has rarely been reported.

Hypersensitivity to any of the components, hypocalcaemia resulting from overdose of Vitamin D3, hyperparathyroidism, bone metastases, severe renal insufficiency, severe hypercalciuria, renal calculi etc.

In presence of mild hypercalciuria, careful monitoring with reduction of dose may be needed. Plasma and serum Calcium level should be monitored in mild to moderate renal impairment and also in case of long-term use. Patients with renal stones or with such previous history should also take precautions.

Oral Calcium can reduce the absorption of tetracycline & fluoride preparations and minimum 3 hours time should be allowed between ingestion of these medications. Thiazide diuretics reduces the renal excretion of Calcium. Phenytoin, barbiturates, glucocorticoids may induce metabolism of Vitamin D3. Concomitant ingestion of certain foods like spinach, cereals, milk and its derivatives may reduce the intestinal uptake of Calcium.

This can be given to pregnant and lactating mothers as per recommendation of physician.

At high doses it may result in nausea, vomiting, dizziness, anorexia, abdominal cramps, headache, constipation, irritability etc. Treatment includes cessation of therapy and adequate rehydration.

Store at temperature of below 30°C, protect from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

This is indicated for the treatment & prevention of osteoporosis, osteomalacia, tetany, hypoparathyroidism, disorders of osteogenesis. Also used as supplement in case of inadequate intake of Calcium in childhood diet, rickets, pregnancy & lactation, elderly patients. Other indications include pancreatitis, phosphate binder in chronic renal failure etc.

Specific mineral & vitamin combined preparations

This is a Calcium and Vitamin D3 preparation where Calcium Carbonate is sourced from coral origin. The Calcium Carbonate from Coral has a chemical structure that is very similar to the composition of human bone. Coral Calcium is similar to other sources but ensures better absorption. Vitamin D3 aids in the absorption of Calcium from GI tract and helps to maintain Calcium balance in the body.

One tablet once or twice daily with plenty of water or as directed by the physician. Taking in full stomach ensures better absorption.

Flatulence, diarrhoea, constipation, upper GI discomfort etc. are rare manifestation. Hypercalcaemia due to prolong use has rarely been reported.

Hypersensitivity to any of the components, hypocalcaemia resulting from overdose of Vitamin D3, hyperparathyroidism, bone metastases, severe renal insufficiency, severe hypercalciuria, renal calculi etc.

In presence of mild hypercalciuria, careful monitoring with reduction of dose may be needed. Plasma and serum Calcium level should be monitored in mild to moderate renal impairment and also in case of long-term use. Patients with renal stones or with such previous history should also take precautions.

Oral Calcium can reduce the absorption of tetracycline & fluoride preparations and minimum 3 hours time should be allowed between ingestion of these medications. Thiazide diuretics reduces the renal excretion of Calcium. Phenytoin, barbiturates, glucocorticoids may induce metabolism of Vitamin D3. Concomitant ingestion of certain foods like spinach, cereals, milk and its derivatives may reduce the intestinal uptake of Calcium.

This can be given to pregnant and lactating mothers as per recommendation of physician.

At high doses it may result in nausea, vomiting, dizziness, anorexia, abdominal cramps, headache, constipation, irritability etc. Treatment includes cessation of therapy and adequate rehydration.

Store at temperature of below 30°C, protect from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

4-Quinolone preparations, Anti-diarrhoeal Antimicrobial drugs

Ciprofloxacin is a synthetic fluoroquinolone. It has bactericidal activity against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. It inhibits bacterial DNA synthesis by binding with the bacterial enzyme-DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV which are responsible for DNA supercoiling.

Tablet: Adult:

• Respiratory Tract Infections: 500 to 750 mg twice daily (7 to 14 days)
• Urinary tract infections: 250 to 750 mg twice daily (3 to 10 days)
• Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases: 500 to 750 mg twice daily (14 days)
• Infectious Diarrhea (Shigella dysenteriae, Vibrio cholera): 500 mg twice daily (1 to 5 days)
• Typhoid fever: 500 mg twice daily (7 days)
• Intra-abdominal infections: 500 to 750 mg twice daily (5 to 14 days)
• Prostatitis: 500 to 750 mg twice daily (2 to 6 weeks)
• Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: 500 to 750 mg twice daily (7 to 14 days)
• Bone and Joint Infections: 500 to 750 mg twice daily (max. 3 months)
• Gonorrhea: 500 mg as a single dose
• Neutropenic patients with fever due to bacterial infection: 500 to 750 mg twice daily co-administered with appropriate antibacterials.
• Meningitis: 500 mg as a single dose.
• Surgical prophylaxis: 500 mg as a single dose, 60 minutes before the procedure.

Suspension: Pediatric: 10-20 mg/kg (max. 750 mg) twice daily (10 to 21 days). The duration of therapy depends on the type and severity of the infection.

Extended-release tablet: In uncomplicated urinary tract infection (acute cystitis), the recommended dose of extended-release tablet is 1000 mg tablet once daily for three days.

For IV infusion:

• Urinary Tract Infection: Mild to Moderate: 200 mg 12 hourly for 7-14 days; Severe or Complicated: 400 mg 12 hourly for 7-14 days
• Lower Respiratory Tract infection: Mild to Moderate: 400 mg 12 hourly for 7-14 days; Severe or Complicated: 400 mg 8 hourly for 7-14 days
• Nosocomial Pneumonia: Mild/Moderate/Severe: 400 mg 8 hourly for 10-14 days
• Skin and Skin Structure: Mild to Moderate: 400 mg 12 hourly for 7-14 days; Severe or Complicated: 400 mg 8 hourly for 7-14 days
• Bone and Joint Infection: Mild to Moderate: 400 mg 12 hourly for more than 4-6 weeks; Severe/Complicated: 400 mg 8 hourly for more than 4-6weeks
• Intraabdominal (Acute abdomen): Complicated: 400 mg 12 hourly for 7-14 days
• Acute Sinusitis: Mild/Moderate: 400 mg 12 hourly for 10 days
• Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis: Mild/Moderate: 400 mg 12 hourly for 28 Days.

Instruction for the use of Ciprofloxacin IV infusion-

• Check the bag for minute leaks by squeezing the inner bag firmly. If leaks are found, or if seal is not intact, discard the solution.
• Do not use if the solution is cloudy or a precipitate is present.
• Do not use flexible bags in series connections.
• Close flow control clamp of administration set.
• Remove cover from port at bottom of bag.
• Insert piercing pin of administration set into port with a twisting motion until the pin is firmly seated.
• Suspend bag from hanger.
• Squeeze and release drip chamber to establish proper fluid level in chamber during infusion of Ciprofloxacin IV infusion.
• Open flow control clamp to expel air from set.Close clamp.
• Regulate rate of administration with flow control clamp

Duration of treatment: The duration of treatment depends upon the severity of infection, clinical response and bacteriological findings. For acute infections the usual treatment period is 5 to 10 days. Generally treatment should be continued for 3 days after the signs and symptoms of the infection have been disappeared.

Side effects include- nausea and other gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, dizziness, joint pain and skin rashes.

It is contraindicated in patients who have known hypersensitivity to Ciprofloxacin or other quinolones.

Patients receiving Ciprofloxacin should be instructed to drink fluids liberally. It should be used with caution in patients with suspected or known CNS disorders such as epilepsy or other factors which predispose to seizures and convulsion. Avoid in patients with known QT prolongation, hypokalemia.

Concurrent administration of Ciprofloxacin should be avoided with Magnesium or Aluminum containing antacids or sucralfate or with other products containing Calcium, Iron or Zinc. These products may be taken two hours after or six hours before Ciprofloxacin. Ciprofloxacin should not be taken concurrently with milk or other dairy products, since absorption of Ciprofloxacin may be significantly reduced. Dietary calcium is a part of a meal, however, does not significantly affect the absorption of Ciprofloxacin.

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Ciprofloxacin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus and mother. Ciprofloxacin is excreted in human milk. Due to the potential risk of articular damage, Ciprofloxacin should not be used during lactation.

Although effective in clinical trials, Ciprofloxacin is not a drug of first choice in pediatric population.

Overdose following Ciprofloxacin administration may lead to seizures, hallucinations, confusion, abdominal discomfort, renal and hepatic impairment as well as crystalluria, haematuria, & reversible renal toxicity.

Keep below 30°C temperature, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

4-Quinolone preparations, Anti-diarrhoeal Antimicrobial drugs

Ciprofloxacin is a synthetic fluoroquinolone. It has bactericidal activity against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. It inhibits bacterial DNA synthesis by binding with the bacterial enzyme-DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV which are responsible for DNA supercoiling.

Tablet: Adult:

• Respiratory Tract Infections: 500 to 750 mg twice daily (7 to 14 days)
• Urinary tract infections: 250 to 750 mg twice daily (3 to 10 days)
• Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases: 500 to 750 mg twice daily (14 days)
• Infectious Diarrhea (Shigella dysenteriae, Vibrio cholera): 500 mg twice daily (1 to 5 days)
• Typhoid fever: 500 mg twice daily (7 days)
• Intra-abdominal infections: 500 to 750 mg twice daily (5 to 14 days)
• Prostatitis: 500 to 750 mg twice daily (2 to 6 weeks)
• Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: 500 to 750 mg twice daily (7 to 14 days)
• Bone and Joint Infections: 500 to 750 mg twice daily (max. 3 months)
• Gonorrhea: 500 mg as a single dose
• Neutropenic patients with fever due to bacterial infection: 500 to 750 mg twice daily co-administered with appropriate antibacterials.
• Meningitis: 500 mg as a single dose.
• Surgical prophylaxis: 500 mg as a single dose, 60 minutes before the procedure.

Suspension: Pediatric: 10-20 mg/kg (max. 750 mg) twice daily (10 to 21 days). The duration of therapy depends on the type and severity of the infection.

Extended-release tablet: In uncomplicated urinary tract infection (acute cystitis), the recommended dose of extended-release tablet is 1000 mg tablet once daily for three days.

For IV infusion:

• Urinary Tract Infection: Mild to Moderate: 200 mg 12 hourly for 7-14 days; Severe or Complicated: 400 mg 12 hourly for 7-14 days
• Lower Respiratory Tract infection: Mild to Moderate: 400 mg 12 hourly for 7-14 days; Severe or Complicated: 400 mg 8 hourly for 7-14 days
• Nosocomial Pneumonia: Mild/Moderate/Severe: 400 mg 8 hourly for 10-14 days
• Skin and Skin Structure: Mild to Moderate: 400 mg 12 hourly for 7-14 days; Severe or Complicated: 400 mg 8 hourly for 7-14 days
• Bone and Joint Infection: Mild to Moderate: 400 mg 12 hourly for more than 4-6 weeks; Severe/Complicated: 400 mg 8 hourly for more than 4-6weeks
• Intraabdominal (Acute abdomen): Complicated: 400 mg 12 hourly for 7-14 days
• Acute Sinusitis: Mild/Moderate: 400 mg 12 hourly for 10 days
• Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis: Mild/Moderate: 400 mg 12 hourly for 28 Days.

Instruction for the use of Ciprofloxacin IV infusion-

• Check the bag for minute leaks by squeezing the inner bag firmly. If leaks are found, or if seal is not intact, discard the solution.
• Do not use if the solution is cloudy or a precipitate is present.
• Do not use flexible bags in series connections.
• Close flow control clamp of administration set.
• Remove cover from port at bottom of bag.
• Insert piercing pin of administration set into port with a twisting motion until the pin is firmly seated.
• Suspend bag from hanger.
• Squeeze and release drip chamber to establish proper fluid level in chamber during infusion of Ciprofloxacin IV infusion.
• Open flow control clamp to expel air from set.Close clamp.
• Regulate rate of administration with flow control clamp

Duration of treatment: The duration of treatment depends upon the severity of infection, clinical response and bacteriological findings. For acute infections the usual treatment period is 5 to 10 days. Generally treatment should be continued for 3 days after the signs and symptoms of the infection have been disappeared.

Side effects include- nausea and other gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, dizziness, joint pain and skin rashes.

It is contraindicated in patients who have known hypersensitivity to Ciprofloxacin or other quinolones.

Patients receiving Ciprofloxacin should be instructed to drink fluids liberally. It should be used with caution in patients with suspected or known CNS disorders such as epilepsy or other factors which predispose to seizures and convulsion. Avoid in patients with known QT prolongation, hypokalemia.

Concurrent administration of Ciprofloxacin should be avoided with Magnesium or Aluminum containing antacids or sucralfate or with other products containing Calcium, Iron or Zinc. These products may be taken two hours after or six hours before Ciprofloxacin. Ciprofloxacin should not be taken concurrently with milk or other dairy products, since absorption of Ciprofloxacin may be significantly reduced. Dietary calcium is a part of a meal, however, does not significantly affect the absorption of Ciprofloxacin.

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Ciprofloxacin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus and mother. Ciprofloxacin is excreted in human milk. Due to the potential risk of articular damage, Ciprofloxacin should not be used during lactation.

Although effective in clinical trials, Ciprofloxacin is not a drug of first choice in pediatric population.

Overdose following Ciprofloxacin administration may lead to seizures, hallucinations, confusion, abdominal discomfort, renal and hepatic impairment as well as crystalluria, haematuria, & reversible renal toxicity.

Keep below 30°C temperature, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Drugs acting on the Uterus

Uterine motility depends on the formation of the contractile protein actomyosin under the influence of the Ca²⁺ dependent phosphorylating enzyme myosin light-chain kinase. Oxytocin promotes contractions by increasing the intracellular Ca²⁺, which in turn activates myosin's light chain kinase. Oxytocin has specific receptors in the muscle lining of the uterus and the receptor concentration increases greatly during pregnancy, reaching a maximum in early labor at term.

Induction or Stimulation of Labor:

• The standard solution for infusion of Oxytocin is prepared by adding the contents of one 1ml vial containing 10 units of Oxytocin to 1000 ml of infusion fluids. The combined solution containing 10 mU (1mU=0.001U) of Oxytocin/ml is rotated in the infusion bottle for thorough mixing.
• The initial dose should be 0.5-1 mU/min (equal to 3-6 ml of the dilute Oxytocin solution per hour). At 30-60 minutes intervals the dose should be gradually increased in increments of 1-2 mU/min until the desired contraction pattern has been established. Once the desired frequency of contractions has been reached and labor has progressed to 5-6 cm dilation, the dose may be reduced by similar increments.
• At term, higher infusion rates should be given with great care and rates exceeding 9-10 mU/min are rarely required.
• Before term, when the sensitivity of the uterus is lower because of a lower concentration of Oxytocin receptors, a higher infusion rate may be required.

Control of Postpartum Uterine Bleeding:

• Intravenous Infusion (Drip Method): To control postpartum bleeding, 10 to 40 units of Oxytocin may be added to the bottle, depending on the amount of infusion fluids solution remaining (maximum 40 units to 1000 ml). Adjust infusion rate to sustain uterine contraction and control uterine atony.
• Intramuscular Administration: 1 mL (10 units) of Oxytocin can be given after the delivery of the placenta.

Treatment of Incomplete or Inevitable Abortion:

• Intravenous infusion of 10 units of Oxytocin added to 500 ml of a 0.9% sodium chloride solution may help the uterus contract after a suction or sharp curettage for an incomplete, inevitable or elective abortion.
• Subsequent to intra-amniotic injection of hypertonic saline, prostaglandins, urea etc., for mid trimester elective abortion, the injection-to-abortion time may be shortened by infusion of Oxytocin at the rate of 10 to 20 mU (20 to 40 drops) per minute. The total dose should not exceed 30 units in a 12-hour period due to the risk of water intoxication.

This drug is contraindicated in- significant cephalopelvic disproportion; unfavorable fetal positions or presentations which are undeliverable without conversion prior to delivery, e.g., transverse lies; in obstetrical emergencies where the benefit-to-risk ratio for either the fetus or the mother favors surgical intervention; in cases of fetal distress where delivery is not imminent; hypertonic uterine patterns; hypersensitivity to the drug. Prolonged use in uterine inertia or severe toxemia is contraindicated. Oxytocin should not be used in cases where vaginal delivery is not indicated.

Oxytocin should not be administered in the following conditions: prematurity, borderline cephalopelvic disproportion, previous major surgery on the cervix or uterus including caesarean section, overdistention of the uterus, grand multiparity or invasive cervical carcinoma.

Severe hypertension has been reported when Oxytocin was given three to four hours following prophylactic administration of a vasoconstrictor in conjunction with caudal-block anesthesia. Cyclopropane anesthesia may modify Oxytocin’s cardiovascular effects, so as to produce unexpected results such as hypotension. Maternal sinus bradycardia with abnormal atrioventricular rhythms has also been noted when Oxytocin was used concomitantly with cyclopropane anesthesia.

Pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Oxytocin is excreted in human milk

Overdosage with Oxytocin depends essentially on uterine hyperactivity whether or not due to hypersensitivity to this agent. Hyperstimulation with strong (hypertonic) or prolonged (tetanic) contractions, or a resting tone of 15 to 20 mm H2O or more between contractions can lead to tumultuous labor, uterine rupture, cervical and vaginal lacerations, postpartum hemorrhage, utero-placental hypoperfusion, and variable deceleration of fetal heart, fetal hypoxia, hypercapnia, or death. Water intoxication with convulsions, which is caused by the inherent antidiuretic effect of Oxytocin, is a serious complication that may occur if large doses (40 to 50 mU/minute) are infused for long periods. Management consists of immediate discontinuation of Oxytocin and symptomatic and supportive therapy.

Infusion Fluids-

• 0.9% Sodium Chloride solution
• 5% Dextrose-in-water solution
• Ringer’s solution
• Hartmann’s solution (Ringer-lactate)

Store in between 2 to 8°C, in dark & frost free place. Keep out of the reach of children.

Gliclazide is a medicine that reduces blood sugar levels (oral antidiabetic medicine belonging to the sulphonylurea group). Gliclazide is used in a certain form of diabetes (type 2 diabetes Mellitus) in adults, when diet, exercise and weight loss alone do not have an adequate effect on keeping blood sugar at the correct level.

Sulfonylureas

Gliclazide is a second generation sulfonylurea drug that has hypoglycaemic and potentially useful hematological properties. It stimulates the release of insulin from pancreatic β-cells by facilitating Ca⁺²  transport across the β-cell membranes and decreases hepatic glucose output.

Film-coated tablet: The usual initial dose is 40 to 80 mg daily. The dose can be increased up to 320 mg daily in divided doses when needed. The drug should be taken before meal. For children, Gliclazide is not used because it is contraindicated in juvenile-onset diabetes.

Modified release preparation: Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure. The dose is determined by the doctor, depending on your blood and possibly urine sugar levels. Change in external factors (weight reduction, lifestyle, stress) or improvements in the blood sugar control may require changed gliclazide doses.

The recommended daily dose is one to four tablets (maximum 120 mg) in a single intake at breakfast time. This depends on the response to treatment. Gliclazide MR tablet is for oral use. Take your tablet(s) with a glass of water at breakfast time (and preferably at the same time each day). Swallow your whole tablet(s) in one piece. Do not chew or crush. You must always eat a meal after taking your tablet(s).

If a combination therapy of gliclazide with metformin, an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, a thiazolidinedione, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor a GLP-1 receptor agonist or insulin is initiated your doctor will determine the proper dose of each medicine individually for you. If you notice that your blood sugar levels are high although you are taking the medicine as prescribed, you should contact your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more Gliclazide tablets than you should: If you take too many tablets, contact your doctor or the nearest hospital Accident & Emergency department immediately. The signs of overdose are those of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia). The symptoms can be helped by taking sugar (4 to 6 lumps) or sugary drinks straight away, followed by a substantial snack or meal. If the patient is unconscious immediately inform a doctor and call the emergency services. The same should be done if somebody, (for instance a child), has taken the product unintentionally. Unconscious patients must not be given food or drink. It should be ensured that there is always a pre-informed person that can call a doctor in case of emergency.

If you forget to take Gliclazide tablet: It is important to take your medicine every day as regular treatment works better. However, if you forget to take a dose of Gliclazide MR tablet, take the next dose at the usual time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you stop taking Gliclazide MR tablet: As the treatment for diabetes is usually lifelong, you should discuss with your doctor before stopping this medicinal product. Stopping could cause high blood sugar (hyperglycaemia) which increases the risk of developing complications of diabetes. If you have any further questions on the use of this product, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Like all medicines, Gliclazide can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The most commonly observed side effect is low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia). If left untreated these symptoms could progress to drowsiness, loss of consciousness or possibly coma. If an episode of low blood sugar is severe or prolonged, even if it is temporarily controlled by eating sugar, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Liver disorders: There have been isolated reports of abnormal iiver function, which can cause yellow skin and eyes. If you get this, see your doctor immediately. The symptoms generally disappear if the medicine is stopped. Your doctor will decide whether to stop your treatment.

Skin disorders: Skin reactions such as rash, redness, itching, hives, blisters, angioedema (rapid swelling of tissues such as eyelids, face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat that may result in breathing difficulty) have been reported. Rash may progress to widespread blistering or peeling of the skin. If you develop this, stop taking, seek urgent advice from a doctor and tell him that you are taking this medicine. Exceptionally, signs of severe hypersensitivity reactions have been reported: initially as flu-like symptoms and a rash on the face then an extended rash with a high temperature.

Blood disorders: Decrease in the number of cells in the blood (e.g. platelets, red and white blood cells) which may cause paleness, prolonged bleeding, bruising, sore throat and fever have been reported. These symptoms usually vanish when the treatment is discontinued.

Digestive disorders: Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, diarrhoea, and constipation. These effects are reduced when Gliclazide is taken with a meal as recommended.

Eye disorders: Your vision may be affected for a short time especially at the start of treatment. This effect is due to changes in blood sugar levels.

As for another sulfonylurea, the following adverse events have been observed: cases of severe changes in the number of blood cells and allergic inflammation of the wall of blood vessels, reduction in blood sodium (hyponatraemia), symptoms of liver impairment (for instance jaundice) which in most cases disappeared after withdrawal of the sulfonylurea, but may lead to life-threatening liver failure in isolated cases.

Reporting of side effects: If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

Do not take Gliclazide:

• if you are allergic to gliclazide or to other medicines of the same group (sulfonylurea), or to other related medicines (hypoglycaemic sulfonamides)
• if you have insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1)
• if you have ketone bodies and sugar in your urine (this may mean you have diabetic ketoacidosis), a diabetic pre-coma or coma
• if you have severe kidney or liver disease
• if you are taking medicines to treat fungal infections
• if you are breastfeeding

Talk to your doctor before taking Gliclazide. You should observe the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor to achieve proper blood sugar levels. This means, apart from regular tablet intake, to observe the dietary regimen, have physical exercise and, where necessary, reduce weight During gliclazide treatment regular monitoring of your blood (and possibly urine) sugar level and also your glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) is necessary. In the first few weeks of treatment, the risk of having reduced blood sugar levels (hypoglycaemia) may be increased. So particularly close medical monitoring is necessary.

Low blood sugar (Hypoglycaemia) may occur:

• if you take meals irregularly or skip meals altogether,
• if you are fasting
• if you are malnourished
• if you change your diet
• if you increase your physical activity and carbohydrate intake does not match this increase,
• if you drink alcohol, especially in combination with skipped meals,
• if you take other medicines or natural remedies at the same time,
• if you take too high doses of gliclazide,
• if you suffer from particular hormone-induced disorders (functional disorders of the thyroid gland, pituitary gland or adrenal cortex),
• if your kidney function or liver function is severely decreased.

if you have low blood sugar you may have the following symptoms: headache, intense hunger, nausea, vomiting, weariness, sleep disorders, restlessness, aggressiveness, poor concentration, reduced alertness and reaction time, depression, confusion, speech or visual disorders, tremor, sensory disturbances, dizziness and helplessness.

The following signs and symptoms may also occur: sweating, clammy skin, anxiety, fast or irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, sudden strong pain in the chest that may radiate into nearby areas (angina pectoris).

If blood sugar levels continue to drop you may suffer from considerable confusion (delirium), develop convulsions, lose self-control, your breathing may be shallow and your heartbeat slowed down, you may become unconscious.

In most cases the symptoms of low blood sugar vanish very quickly when you consume .some form of sugar, (for instance, glucose tablets, sugar cubes, sweet juice, sweetened tea).

You should therefore always carry some form of sugar with you (glucose tablets, sugar cubes). Remember that artificial sweeteners are not effective. Please contact your doctor or the nearest hospital if taking sugar does not help or if the symptoms recur.

Symptoms of low blood sugar may be absent, less obvious or develop very slowly or you are not aware in time that your blood sugar level has dropped. This may happen if you are an elderly patient taking certain medicines (for instance those acting on the central nervous system and beta-blockers).

If you are in stressful situations (e.g. accidents, surgical operations, fever etc.) your doctor may temporarily switch you to insulin therapy.

Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycaemia) may occur when gliclazide has not yet sufficiently reduced the blood sugar when you have not complied with the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor if you take St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) preparations or in special stress situations. These may include thirst, frequent urination, dry mouth, dry itchy skin, skin infections and reduced performance.

Blood glucose disturbances (low blood sugar and high bold sugar) can occur when Gliclazide is prescribed at the same time as medicines to a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolone, especially in elderly patients. In this case, your doctor will remind you of the importance of monitoring your blood glucose.

If you have a family history of or know you have the hereditary condition glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency (abnormality of red blood cells), lowering of the haemoglobin level and breakdown of red blood cells (haemolytic anaemia) can occur. Contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product.

Gliclazide is not recommended for use in children due to lack of data.

Other medicines and Gliclazide: Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines.

The blood sugar lowering effect of gliclazide may be strengthened and signs of low blood sugar levels may occur when one of the follow ng medicines is taken:

• other medicines used to treat high blood sugar (oral antidiabetics, GLP-1 receptor agonists or insulin),
• antibiotics (sulphonamides, clarithromycin)
• medicines to treat high blood pressure or heart failure (beta-blockers. ACE-inhibitors such as captopril, or enalapril)
• medicines to treat fungal infections (miconazole, fluconazole)
• medicines to treat ulcers in the stomach or duodenum (H2 receptor antagonists),
• medicines to treat depression (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)
• painkiller or antirheumatics (phenylbutazone, ibuprofen)
• medicines containing alcohol

The blood-glucose-lowering effect of gliclazide may be weakened and raised blood sugar levels may occur when one of the following medicines is taken:

• medicines to treat disorders of the central nervous system (chlorpromazine)
• medicines reducing inflammation (corticosteroids)
• medicines to treat asthma or used during labour (intravenous salbutamol, ritodrine and terbutaline)
• medicines to treat breast disorders, heavy menstrual bleeding and endometriosis (danazol)
• St John's Wort- Hypericum perforatum- preparations

Blood glucose disturbance (low blood sugar and high blood sugar) can occur when a medicine belonging to a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones is taken at the same time as gliclazide especially in elderly patients.

Gliclazide may increase the effects of medicines that reduce blood clotting (warfarin).

Consult your doctor before you start taking another medicinal product. If you go into hospital tell the medical staff you are taking gliclazide.

Gliclazide with food and drink: Gliclazide can be taken with food and non-alcoholic drinks. Drinking alcohol is not recommended as it can alter the control of your diabetes in an unpredictable manner.

Driving and using machines: Your ability to concentrate or react may be impaired if your blood sugar is too low (hypoglycaemia), or too high (hyperglycaemia) or if you develop visual problems as a result of such conditions. Bear in mind that you could endanger yourself or others (for instance when driving a car or using machines). Please ask your doctor whether you can drive a car if you:

• have frequent episodes of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
• have few or no warning signals of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)

Gliclazide contains lactose. If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicine.

Gliclazide is not recommended for use during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor for advice before taking this medicine. You must not take Gliclazide while you are breastfeeding.

Keep out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton and the blister. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. Store below 30°C. Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect the environment.

Gliclazide is a medicine that reduces blood sugar levels (oral antidiabetic medicine belonging to the sulphonylurea group). Gliclazide is used in a certain form of diabetes (type 2 diabetes Mellitus) in adults, when diet, exercise and weight loss alone do not have an adequate effect on keeping blood sugar at the correct level.

Sulfonylureas

Gliclazide is a second generation sulfonylurea drug that has hypoglycaemic and potentially useful hematological properties. It stimulates the release of insulin from pancreatic β-cells by facilitating Ca⁺²  transport across the β-cell membranes and decreases hepatic glucose output.

Film-coated tablet: The usual initial dose is 40 to 80 mg daily. The dose can be increased up to 320 mg daily in divided doses when needed. The drug should be taken before meal. For children, Gliclazide is not used because it is contraindicated in juvenile-onset diabetes.

Modified release preparation: Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure. The dose is determined by the doctor, depending on your blood and possibly urine sugar levels. Change in external factors (weight reduction, lifestyle, stress) or improvements in the blood sugar control may require changed gliclazide doses.

The recommended daily dose is one to four tablets (maximum 120 mg) in a single intake at breakfast time. This depends on the response to treatment. Gliclazide MR tablet is for oral use. Take your tablet(s) with a glass of water at breakfast time (and preferably at the same time each day). Swallow your whole tablet(s) in one piece. Do not chew or crush. You must always eat a meal after taking your tablet(s).

If a combination therapy of gliclazide with metformin, an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, a thiazolidinedione, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor a GLP-1 receptor agonist or insulin is initiated your doctor will determine the proper dose of each medicine individually for you. If you notice that your blood sugar levels are high although you are taking the medicine as prescribed, you should contact your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more Gliclazide tablets than you should: If you take too many tablets, contact your doctor or the nearest hospital Accident & Emergency department immediately. The signs of overdose are those of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia). The symptoms can be helped by taking sugar (4 to 6 lumps) or sugary drinks straight away, followed by a substantial snack or meal. If the patient is unconscious immediately inform a doctor and call the emergency services. The same should be done if somebody, (for instance a child), has taken the product unintentionally. Unconscious patients must not be given food or drink. It should be ensured that there is always a pre-informed person that can call a doctor in case of emergency.

If you forget to take Gliclazide tablet: It is important to take your medicine every day as regular treatment works better. However, if you forget to take a dose of Gliclazide MR tablet, take the next dose at the usual time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you stop taking Gliclazide MR tablet: As the treatment for diabetes is usually lifelong, you should discuss with your doctor before stopping this medicinal product. Stopping could cause high blood sugar (hyperglycaemia) which increases the risk of developing complications of diabetes. If you have any further questions on the use of this product, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Like all medicines, Gliclazide can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The most commonly observed side effect is low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia). If left untreated these symptoms could progress to drowsiness, loss of consciousness or possibly coma. If an episode of low blood sugar is severe or prolonged, even if it is temporarily controlled by eating sugar, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Liver disorders: There have been isolated reports of abnormal iiver function, which can cause yellow skin and eyes. If you get this, see your doctor immediately. The symptoms generally disappear if the medicine is stopped. Your doctor will decide whether to stop your treatment.

Skin disorders: Skin reactions such as rash, redness, itching, hives, blisters, angioedema (rapid swelling of tissues such as eyelids, face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat that may result in breathing difficulty) have been reported. Rash may progress to widespread blistering or peeling of the skin. If you develop this, stop taking, seek urgent advice from a doctor and tell him that you are taking this medicine. Exceptionally, signs of severe hypersensitivity reactions have been reported: initially as flu-like symptoms and a rash on the face then an extended rash with a high temperature.

Blood disorders: Decrease in the number of cells in the blood (e.g. platelets, red and white blood cells) which may cause paleness, prolonged bleeding, bruising, sore throat and fever have been reported. These symptoms usually vanish when the treatment is discontinued.

Digestive disorders: Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, diarrhoea, and constipation. These effects are reduced when Gliclazide is taken with a meal as recommended.

Eye disorders: Your vision may be affected for a short time especially at the start of treatment. This effect is due to changes in blood sugar levels.

As for another sulfonylurea, the following adverse events have been observed: cases of severe changes in the number of blood cells and allergic inflammation of the wall of blood vessels, reduction in blood sodium (hyponatraemia), symptoms of liver impairment (for instance jaundice) which in most cases disappeared after withdrawal of the sulfonylurea, but may lead to life-threatening liver failure in isolated cases.

Reporting of side effects: If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

Do not take Gliclazide:

• if you are allergic to gliclazide or to other medicines of the same group (sulfonylurea), or to other related medicines (hypoglycaemic sulfonamides)
• if you have insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1)
• if you have ketone bodies and sugar in your urine (this may mean you have diabetic ketoacidosis), a diabetic pre-coma or coma
• if you have severe kidney or liver disease
• if you are taking medicines to treat fungal infections
• if you are breastfeeding

Talk to your doctor before taking Gliclazide. You should observe the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor to achieve proper blood sugar levels. This means, apart from regular tablet intake, to observe the dietary regimen, have physical exercise and, where necessary, reduce weight During gliclazide treatment regular monitoring of your blood (and possibly urine) sugar level and also your glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) is necessary. In the first few weeks of treatment, the risk of having reduced blood sugar levels (hypoglycaemia) may be increased. So particularly close medical monitoring is necessary.

Low blood sugar (Hypoglycaemia) may occur:

• if you take meals irregularly or skip meals altogether,
• if you are fasting
• if you are malnourished
• if you change your diet
• if you increase your physical activity and carbohydrate intake does not match this increase,
• if you drink alcohol, especially in combination with skipped meals,
• if you take other medicines or natural remedies at the same time,
• if you take too high doses of gliclazide,
• if you suffer from particular hormone-induced disorders (functional disorders of the thyroid gland, pituitary gland or adrenal cortex),
• if your kidney function or liver function is severely decreased.

if you have low blood sugar you may have the following symptoms: headache, intense hunger, nausea, vomiting, weariness, sleep disorders, restlessness, aggressiveness, poor concentration, reduced alertness and reaction time, depression, confusion, speech or visual disorders, tremor, sensory disturbances, dizziness and helplessness.

The following signs and symptoms may also occur: sweating, clammy skin, anxiety, fast or irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, sudden strong pain in the chest that may radiate into nearby areas (angina pectoris).

If blood sugar levels continue to drop you may suffer from considerable confusion (delirium), develop convulsions, lose self-control, your breathing may be shallow and your heartbeat slowed down, you may become unconscious.

In most cases the symptoms of low blood sugar vanish very quickly when you consume .some form of sugar, (for instance, glucose tablets, sugar cubes, sweet juice, sweetened tea).

You should therefore always carry some form of sugar with you (glucose tablets, sugar cubes). Remember that artificial sweeteners are not effective. Please contact your doctor or the nearest hospital if taking sugar does not help or if the symptoms recur.

Symptoms of low blood sugar may be absent, less obvious or develop very slowly or you are not aware in time that your blood sugar level has dropped. This may happen if you are an elderly patient taking certain medicines (for instance those acting on the central nervous system and beta-blockers).

If you are in stressful situations (e.g. accidents, surgical operations, fever etc.) your doctor may temporarily switch you to insulin therapy.

Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycaemia) may occur when gliclazide has not yet sufficiently reduced the blood sugar when you have not complied with the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor if you take St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) preparations or in special stress situations. These may include thirst, frequent urination, dry mouth, dry itchy skin, skin infections and reduced performance.

Blood glucose disturbances (low blood sugar and high bold sugar) can occur when Gliclazide is prescribed at the same time as medicines to a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolone, especially in elderly patients. In this case, your doctor will remind you of the importance of monitoring your blood glucose.

If you have a family history of or know you have the hereditary condition glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency (abnormality of red blood cells), lowering of the haemoglobin level and breakdown of red blood cells (haemolytic anaemia) can occur. Contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product.

Gliclazide is not recommended for use in children due to lack of data.

Other medicines and Gliclazide: Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines.

The blood sugar lowering effect of gliclazide may be strengthened and signs of low blood sugar levels may occur when one of the follow ng medicines is taken:

• other medicines used to treat high blood sugar (oral antidiabetics, GLP-1 receptor agonists or insulin),
• antibiotics (sulphonamides, clarithromycin)
• medicines to treat high blood pressure or heart failure (beta-blockers. ACE-inhibitors such as captopril, or enalapril)
• medicines to treat fungal infections (miconazole, fluconazole)
• medicines to treat ulcers in the stomach or duodenum (H2 receptor antagonists),
• medicines to treat depression (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)
• painkiller or antirheumatics (phenylbutazone, ibuprofen)
• medicines containing alcohol

The blood-glucose-lowering effect of gliclazide may be weakened and raised blood sugar levels may occur when one of the following medicines is taken:

• medicines to treat disorders of the central nervous system (chlorpromazine)
• medicines reducing inflammation (corticosteroids)
• medicines to treat asthma or used during labour (intravenous salbutamol, ritodrine and terbutaline)
• medicines to treat breast disorders, heavy menstrual bleeding and endometriosis (danazol)
• St John's Wort- Hypericum perforatum- preparations

Blood glucose disturbance (low blood sugar and high blood sugar) can occur when a medicine belonging to a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones is taken at the same time as gliclazide especially in elderly patients.

Gliclazide may increase the effects of medicines that reduce blood clotting (warfarin).

Consult your doctor before you start taking another medicinal product. If you go into hospital tell the medical staff you are taking gliclazide.

Gliclazide with food and drink: Gliclazide can be taken with food and non-alcoholic drinks. Drinking alcohol is not recommended as it can alter the control of your diabetes in an unpredictable manner.

Driving and using machines: Your ability to concentrate or react may be impaired if your blood sugar is too low (hypoglycaemia), or too high (hyperglycaemia) or if you develop visual problems as a result of such conditions. Bear in mind that you could endanger yourself or others (for instance when driving a car or using machines). Please ask your doctor whether you can drive a car if you:

• have frequent episodes of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
• have few or no warning signals of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)

Gliclazide contains lactose. If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicine.

Gliclazide is not recommended for use during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor for advice before taking this medicine. You must not take Gliclazide while you are breastfeeding.

Keep out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton and the blister. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. Store below 30°C. Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect the environment.