Dapagliflozin
DAPAGLIFLOZIN
Overview
Dapagliflozin is mainly used in people with type 2 diabetes to lower blood sugar levels. It’s also helpful in managing heart failure and chronic kidney disease, even in people without diabetes. It works by helping the body get rid of extra sugar through the urine.
Classification
Antidiabetic
Uses
Type 2 diabetes – to improve blood sugar control
Heart failure – to ease symptoms and reduce hospital visits
Chronic kidney disease – to protect kidney function and slow progression
Sometimes used to reduce the risk of heart-related complications
How It Works
Dapagliflozin blocks a protein in the kidneys (SGLT2) that usually reabsorbs sugar back into the body. By stopping this process, the medicine causes more sugar to pass out through urine, lowering blood sugar levels. This also helps the body get rid of extra fluid, easing the strain on the heart and kidneys.
Dosage
As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects
Urinary tract infections
Increased urination
Genital infections (especially in women)
Low blood sugar (when used with insulin or other diabetes drugs)
Dehydration, which can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness
In rare cases, ketoacidosis (a serious condition involving high acid levels in the blood)
Precautions
Drink enough water to avoid dehydration, especially during hot weather or if you exercise.
Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems, liver disease, or a history of urinary tract infections.
Not usually recommended for people with type 1 diabetes.
Watch for symptoms like nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or trouble breathing, and report them immediately (possible signs of ketoacidosis).
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before starting this medicine.
Let your doctor know about all other medications you are taking.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage
Glimepiride
GLIMEPIRIDE
Overview:
Glimepiride is an oral medication commonly used to help manage type 2 diabetes. It’s designed to lower blood sugar levels when diet and exercise alone aren’t enough
Classification
Sulfonylureas.
Uses:
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
It’s prescribed to help people with type 2 diabetes keep their blood sugar levels in a healthier range.
It’s not for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis
How It Work:
Glimepiride works by:
Stimulating your pancreas to release more insulin (the hormone that lowers blood sugar).
Helping your body use insulin more effectively.
Dosage:
As prescribed by your doctor.
Side Effects:
Most people tolerate glimepiride well, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. Here are the most common:
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) – The most important one to watch out for. You might feel shaky, dizzy, sweaty, hungry, or anxious.
Weight gain – A possible downside for some.
Nausea or upset stomach
Allergic reactions – Rare, but can include rash, itching, or swelling.
Precautions:
Don’t skip meals while on glimepiride—this increases the risk of low blood sugar.
Alcohol can make side effects worse, especially hypoglycemia.
Kidney or liver issues – Tell your doctor—glimepiride may need to be adjusted.
Pregnant or breastfeeding- Not typically recommended without medical advice.
Sun sensitivity – Some people may burn more easily, so sunscreen is a good idea.
Always take it exactly as prescribed, and don’t double up on doses
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage
Metformin
METFORMIN
Overview:
Metformin is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
Classification:
Anti-diabetic medication
Uses:
Managing blood sugar levels with medications like metformin can prevent complications such as kidney damage, nerve issues, blindness, amputations, and sexual dysfunction. Effective diabetes control can also lower the risk of heart attacks or strokes.
HOW IT WORKS:
It works by lowering glucose production in the liver, delaying the absorption of sugar (glucose) from the intestines, and increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin.
Dosage:
As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects:
unusual muscle pain
feeling cold
trouble breathing
feeling dizzy, light-headed, tired, or very weak
stomach pain, vomiting
slow or irregular heart rate
Common metformin side effects may include:
low blood sugar
nausea, upset stomach
diarrhea.
Precautions:
You should not use metformin if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
severe kidney disease; or
metabolic acidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis (call your doctor for treatment)
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
kidney disease (your kidney function may need to be checked before you take this medicine);
high ketone levels in your blood or urine;
heart disease, congestive heart failure;
liver disease; or
if you also use insulin, or other oral diabetes medications
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage
