Zolium-XR
Generic Name
Glimepiride
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| zolium xr 2 mg tablet | ৳ 8.00 | ৳ 80.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Zolium-XR 2 mg Tablet is an extended-release oral antidiabetic medication containing Glimepiride, used for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is 1-2 mg once daily, taken with breakfast or the first main meal. Dose may be increased gradually up to a maximum of 8 mg once daily.
Elderly
Start with a lower dose (e.g., 1 mg once daily) and titrate carefully to avoid hypoglycemia.
Renal_impairment
In patients with mild to moderate renal impairment, an initial dose of 1 mg once daily should be considered. Careful monitoring of blood glucose is required.
How to Take
Take Zolium-XR 2 mg Tablet orally once daily with breakfast or the first main meal. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or divide.
Mechanism of Action
Glimepiride stimulates insulin release from the pancreatic beta cells and improves peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. It also reduces hepatic glucose production.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action is typically within 1 hour for immediate release, extended-release provides gradual onset.
Excretion
Approximately 60% of the dose is excreted in the urine and 40% in the feces.
Half life
Approximately 5-9 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Extended-release formulation provides sustained plasma concentrations.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by CYP2C9 to two main metabolites (hydroxy and carboxy metabolites).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to glimepiride or other sulfonylureas
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
- Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
- Pregnancy and lactation
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
May increase the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride.
Warfarin
May displace warfarin from protein binding, leading to increased anticoagulant effect.
Fluconazole
May increase glimepiride plasma concentrations.
Beta-blockers
May mask symptoms of hypoglycemia and decrease glucose tolerance.
Corticosteroids, Diuretics
May reduce the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to severe hypoglycemia. Management includes oral glucose for mild cases or intravenous glucose/glucagon for severe cases. Close monitoring for 24-48 hours is essential.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Not recommended during pregnancy (Category C/D) and lactation due to potential harm to the fetus/infant. Insulin is preferred for glycemic control during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to glimepiride or other sulfonylureas
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
- Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
- Pregnancy and lactation
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
May increase the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride.
Warfarin
May displace warfarin from protein binding, leading to increased anticoagulant effect.
Fluconazole
May increase glimepiride plasma concentrations.
Beta-blockers
May mask symptoms of hypoglycemia and decrease glucose tolerance.
Corticosteroids, Diuretics
May reduce the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to severe hypoglycemia. Management includes oral glucose for mild cases or intravenous glucose/glucagon for severe cases. Close monitoring for 24-48 hours is essential.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Not recommended during pregnancy (Category C/D) and lactation due to potential harm to the fetus/infant. Insulin is preferred for glycemic control during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved (DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of glimepiride in managing type 2 diabetes, including studies specifically on its extended-release formulations to demonstrate sustained glycemic control and reduced dosing frequency.
Lab Monitoring
- Fasting blood glucose (FBG)
- Postprandial blood glucose (PPBG)
- Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c)
- Renal function tests (creatinine, BUN)
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST)
Doctor Notes
- Educate patients thoroughly on the symptoms, prevention, and management of hypoglycemia, emphasizing the importance of carrying a rapid-acting carbohydrate source.
- Emphasize lifestyle modifications (diet, regular exercise, weight management) as crucial adjuncts to pharmacotherapy for optimal diabetes control.
- Regularly monitor renal function and adjust glimepiride dose accordingly, especially in elderly patients or those with pre-existing renal impairment, to minimize hypoglycemia risk.
Patient Guidelines
- Adhere strictly to prescribed dosage and timing.
- Monitor blood glucose levels regularly as advised by your doctor.
- Recognize and manage symptoms of hypoglycemia (e.g., sweating, trembling, confusion).
- Carry a source of fast-acting sugar (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice) for hypoglycemia.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Caution is advised while driving or operating machinery, especially at the beginning of treatment or if the dose is adjusted, due to the risk of hypoglycemia. Patients should be aware of their blood glucose levels.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet and regular meal schedule.
- Engage in regular physical activity as recommended.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can worsen hypoglycemia.
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