Glikazid 30 MR Tablet 1 Strip

Glikazid MR is an oral antidiabetic medication used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults when lifestyle measures such as diet, exercise, and weight reduction alone are insufficient to maintain optimal blood glucose levels.

• Film-coated tablets: The usual starting dose is 40–80 mg daily, which may be increased up to 320 mg per day in divided doses if necessary. It should be taken before meals.
• Modified-release (MR) tablets: The recommended dose ranges from 30–120 mg once daily, usually taken at breakfast. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water and should not be crushed or chewed.
• Dosage adjustments may be required based on blood glucose levels, lifestyle changes, stress, or weight fluctuations.
• If used with other antidiabetic medicines such as metformin, insulin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, DPP-4 inhibitors, or thiazolidinediones, dosing should be individualized by a physician.
• In case of overdose, symptoms of hypoglycemia may occur and immediate medical attention is required.
• If a dose is missed, take the next scheduled dose as usual. Do not double the dose.
• Treatment should not be discontinued without consulting a healthcare professional, as this may lead to uncontrolled blood sugar levels.

Drug Interactions
The glucose-lowering effect of Glikazid MR may be enhanced by:

• Other antidiabetic medicines, including insulin and GLP-1 receptor agonists
• Certain antibiotics such as sulfonamides and clarithromycin
• ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers
• Antifungal medications like miconazole and fluconazole
• MAO inhibitors, H2 receptor antagonists, NSAIDs, and alcohol

Its effectiveness may be reduced by:

• Corticosteroids
• Chlorpromazine
• Certain asthma medications (salbutamol, terbutaline, ritodrine)
• Danazol
• St. John’s Wort preparations

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics may cause either high or low blood sugar, especially in elderly patients. Glikazid MR may also increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin.

Contraindications
Glikazid MR should not be used in patients who:

• Are allergic to gliclazide, sulfonylureas, or related compounds
• Have type 1 diabetes
• Have diabetic ketoacidosis, diabetic coma, or pre-coma
• Have severe liver or kidney impairment
• Are taking miconazole
• Are breastfeeding

Side Effects
The most common adverse effect is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Other possible side effects include:

• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, and indigestion
• Temporary visual disturbances
• Skin reactions such as rash, itching, hives, blistering, or angioedema
• Liver-related problems, including jaundice
• Changes in blood cell counts causing bruising, bleeding, sore throat, or anemia

Severe allergic reactions and rare cases of liver failure have also been reported.

Pregnancy & Lactation
Gliclazide is generally not recommended during pregnancy. Women who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or suspect they may be pregnant should seek medical advice. It should not be used while breastfeeding.

Precautions & Warnings
Patients should follow their prescribed diet, exercise routine, and medication schedule to maintain good glycemic control. Regular monitoring of blood glucose and HbA1c levels is recommended.

The risk of hypoglycemia may increase in situations such as:

• Skipping meals or fasting
• Poor nutrition
• Increased physical activity without adequate carbohydrate intake
• Alcohol consumption
• Taking excessive doses
• Severe liver or kidney impairment
• Certain hormonal disorders

Common symptoms of hypoglycemia include hunger, headache, sweating, dizziness, trembling, confusion, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Severe cases may result in seizures, loss of consciousness, or coma.

Patients should carry a quick source of sugar, such as glucose tablets or sugar cubes, to manage episodes of low blood sugar.

Special care is required during periods of illness, surgery, stress, or infection, as blood glucose levels may fluctuate. Individuals with G6PD deficiency may be at increased risk of hemolytic anemia.

Use in children is not recommended due to limited safety data.

Therapeutic Class
Sulfonylurea antidiabetic agent.

Storage Conditions
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of the reach of children and do not use after the expiry date.