Duvel Plus 50/1000mg Tablet

Duvel Plus 50/1000mg Tablet is a combination oral medication that contains two active ingredients: sitagliptin and metformin. Sitagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, and metformin is a biguanide. Together, these medications work to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metformin works by decreasing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity, thereby reducing the amount of sugar absorbed from the intestines and improving the body’s response to insulin. Sitagliptin works by increasing the levels of incretins, hormones that increase insulin release, especially after a meal, and decrease the amount of sugar made by the body.

Uses:

• Management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults, as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control.
• May be used in patients inadequately controlled on metformin alone, or those already being treated with the combination of sitagliptin and metformin in separate tablets.

Side Effects:

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain (more common with metformin).
• Hypoglycemia, especially if used with other medications that lower blood sugar.
• Headache.
• Nasopharyngitis (common cold symptoms).

Rare but serious side effects include:

• Lactic acidosis, a potentially fatal condition caused by too much lactate in the blood (more common with metformin).
• Pancreatitis.
• Severe joint pain.
• Skin reaction.

Precautions:

• Not for the treatment of type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Use caution in patients with renal impairment; kidney function should be monitored before starting treatment and periodically thereafter.
• Avoid in patients with metabolic acidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects.

When Not to Use:

• In patients with a history of hypersensitivity to sitagliptin, metformin, or any component of the formulation.
• Patients with severe renal impairment, acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma.

FAQ:

1. Can Duvel Plus be used in type 1 diabetes?
   • No, it is not indicated for the treatment of type 1 diabetes or for diabetic ketoacidosis.
2. How should Duvel Plus be taken?
   • Take Duvel Plus as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once or twice daily with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
3. Can I drink alcohol while taking Duvel Plus?
   • Alcohol is not recommended as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis, especially in patients taking metformin.
4. What should I do if I miss a dose?
   • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not double doses.
5. How long does it take for Duvel Plus to work?
   • You might start seeing improvements in your blood sugar levels in a few days, but it could take up to 2 weeks for the full effect. Continuous use as prescribed is necessary for maintaining control over your blood sugar levels.