Zyvana M1 Tablet SR

How to use Zyvana M1 Tablet SR

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Zyvana M1 Tablet SR is to be taken with food.
Zyvana M1 Tablet SR may cause stomach upset if taken empty stomach.

How Medicine Works

Zyvana M1 Tablet SR is a combination of two antidiabetic medicines: Glimepiride and Metformin. Glimepiride is a sulfonylurea which works by increasing the amount of insulin released by the pancreas in order to lower the blood glucose. Metformin is a biguanide which works by lowering glucose production in the liver, delaying glucose absorption from intestines and increasing the body"s sensitivity to insulin.

Expert Advice

• You have been prescribed this combination medicine as it can control blood sugar better than metformin alone.
• You should continue to exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, and take your other diabetes medicines along with Zyvana M1 Tablet SR.
• Take it with food to lower your chance of having an upset stomach.
• Monitor your blood sugar level regularly while you are taking this medicine. 
• Inform your doctor about your diabetes treatment if you are due to have surgery under a general anesthetic.
• It can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level) when used with other antidiabetic medicines, alcohol or if you delay or miss a meal. 
• Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any deep or rapid breathing or if you have persistent nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain as Zyvana M1 Tablet SR may cause a rare but serious condition called lactic acidosis, which is an excess of lactic acid in the blood.
• Your doctor may check your liver function regularly. Inform your doctor if you develop symptoms such as abdominal pain, loss of appetite, or yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What are the recommended storage conditions for Zyvana M?

Keep this medicine in the container or the pack it came in, tightly closed. Store it according to the instructions mentioned on the pack or label. Dispose of the unused medicine. Make sure it is not consumed by pets, children and other people.

Q. Can the use of Zyvana M lead to lactic acidosis?

Yes, the use of Zyvana M can lead to lactic acidosis. It is a medical emergency which is caused by increased levels of lactic acid in the blood. It is also known as MALA (Metformin-associated lactic acidosis). It is a rare side effect associated with the use of metformin and therefore, it is considered to be harmful for patients with underlying kidney disease, old age patients or who take large amounts of alcohol. Symptoms of lactic acidosis may include muscle pain or weakness, dizziness, tiredness, feeling of cold in arms and legs, difficulty in breathing, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or slow heart rate. If you have these symptoms, stop taking Zyvana M and consult your doctor immediately.

Q. What is Zyvana M?

Zyvana M is a combination of two medicines: Glimepiride and Metformin. This medicine is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). It improves blood glucose levels in adults when taken along with proper diet and regular exercise. Glimepiride lowers the blood glucose levels by increasing the release of insulin from the pancreas. Metformin works by lowering the glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity. This combination is not indicated for the treatment of type 1 DM.

Q. What are the possible side effects of Zyvana M?

The use of Zyvana M is associated with common side effects like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level), altered taste, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache and upper respiratory tract infection. Its use can also lead to serious but rare side effects like lactic acidosis. On long-term use it can also lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Q. Can the use of Zyvana M lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency?

Yes, the use of Zyvana M can cause Vitamin B12 deficiency on long-term use. It interferes with the absorption of Vitamin B12 in the stomach. If untreated, it may cause anemia and nerve problems and the patient can experience tingling sensation and numbness in hands and feet, weakness, urinary problems, change in mental status and difficulty in maintaining balance (ataxia). To avoid such problems, some researchers suggest an intake of Vitamin B12 from outside sources at least once every year.

Q. Can the use of Zyvana M cause hypoglycemia?

Yes, the use of Zyvana M can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level). Symptoms of hypoglycemia include nausea, headache, irritability, hunger, sweating, dizziness, fast heart rate and feeling anxious or shaky. It happens more often if you miss or delay your food, drink alcohol, over-exercise or take other antidiabetic medicine along with it. So, regular monitoring of the blood sugar level is important. Always keep a quick source of sugar like glucose tablets, honey or fruit juice with you.

Q. Is it safe to take alcohol while I am also taking Zyvana M?

No, it is not safe to take Zyvana M along with alcohol, as it may lower your blood sugar levels and lead to hypoglycemia. It can also increase the chances of lactic acidosis.Show moreShow less