Lotra Tablets (Glimipiride)

Adult dose

Individually adjusted for each patient. Swallow without chewing with more than 1/2 cup of water. Administer 1 time a day orally. It should be taken before breakfast or immediately before the first meal. Initial dosage for monotherapy: Start with a daily dose of 1 mg of Glimepiride, increasing by 1 mg at 1- to 2-week intervals, generally, doses exceeding 4 mg offer minimal additional effect, but a maximum of 6 mg may be considered.

This medication should not be used in patients with insulin-dependent diabetes or those in diabetic ketoacidosis or coma. Patients who have had allergic reactions to this medication or its components, as well as others in the same class, should avoid use. It is recommended to switch to insulin treatment for patients with severely impaired liver or kidney function. It is also advisable for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant, as well as nursing mothers, to avoid using this medication. Insulin treatment may be more appropriate for patients with severe infections, perioperative status, or significant trauma. Caution is advised if gastrointestinal disturbances may hinder food absorption, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. During the first week of starting this medication, the risk of hypoglycemia is heightened, and blood sugar levels should be closely monitored. Particular precautions should be taken for the elderly, individuals with poor nutritional status or irregular eating habits, imbalances in exercise and diet, changes in eating patterns, and frequent alcohol consumption. Patients with compromised kidney or liver function may also respond more sensitively to this medication, necessitating dose adjustments. Furthermore, those with other endocrine disorders or taking multiple medications should consult a doctor, as the risk of hypoglycemia may increase. When using this medication, one should be aware of possible hypoglycemic symptoms such as headaches, severe hunger, nausea, fatigue, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, and decreased consciousness. It is critical to consume carbohydrate-containing foods immediately if hypoglycemic symptoms occur. Some patients may experience temporary blurred vision or gastrointestinal symptoms, as well as abnormalities in liver function, blood changes, or allergic reactions. Serious allergic reactions such as urticaria or difficulty breathing require immediate medical attention. This medication must be used alongside dietary and exercise regimens for blood sugar control and should be taken regularly. To prevent hypoglycemic symptoms, it is advised to always carry carbohydrates and ensure that family members are aware of hypoglycemia symptoms and treatment methods. In stressful situations or after surgery or infections where blood sugar control becomes challenging, transitioning to insulin therapy may be necessary. This medication can interact with other medications, so it is essential to inform your doctor or pharmacist of any other drugs being taken. Particularly, changes in blood sugar levels may occur when taken with certain antibiotics, antifungals, antihypertensives, anticoagulants, and beta-blockers. It is safest for pregnant or nursing women to avoid this medication, and insulin treatment should be considered if necessary. In cases of overdose, severe hypoglycemia can occur, necessitating immediate medical assistance and observation in a hospital until blood sugar levels are fully restored. This medication should be kept out of the reach of children, stored in its original container, and taken precisely as directed by a physician.

Serious side effects

• Urticaria
• severe swelling (edema)
• chest tightness
• difficulty breathing
• cold sweat
• pallor
• severe rash with fever
• blisters
• peeling skin
• pain in mucous membranes of mouth/eyes

Mild side effects

• Headache
• severe hunger
• nausea
• vomiting
• fatigue
• sleep disturbances
• anxiety
• aggression
• decreased concentration
• decreased agility or motivation

This medication must be stored in a tightly sealed container to avoid exposure to air or moisture. It is best to store it at room temperature, ideally between 1 and 30 degrees Celsius.

Appearance

Green rectangular tablet

Package unit

30 tablets/bottle, 200 tablets/bottle