Diactin 5

Indications

• Diactin is used to manage Type II diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) when diet alone is insufficient for controlling blood glucose levels.
• It can be combined with insulin to help reduce insulin dosage in patients not achieving adequate control with diet and insulin alone.
• Diactin is an adjunct to diet and should not replace dietary changes or be used as a shortcut to avoid dietary restrictions. Discontinue if blood glucose control deteriorates.

Pharmacology

• Diactin contains Glipizide, a sulfonylurea that lowers blood glucose by stimulating insulin release from pancreatic beta cells.
• It also improves insulin sensitivity, decreases liver glucose production, and maintains its effects for up to 24 hours.

Dosage & Administration

• Initial Dose: Start with 5 mg daily before breakfast; adjust to 2.5 mg for elderly or liver-impaired patients.
• Dosage Adjustments: Increase by 2.5-5 mg every few days based on blood glucose levels. Maximum single dose: 15 mg. Maximum daily dose: 40 mg, with doses above 15 mg usually divided.
• Administration: Take 30 minutes before meals. Adjust dosage based on patient response and avoid skipping meals.

Interactions

• Increased Effect: Drugs like ACE inhibitors and salicylates can enhance Glipizide’s effects.
• Reduced Effect: Thiazides, corticosteroids, and other medications may lower Glipizide’s effectiveness.
• Unpredictable Effects: Alcohol and certain drugs can unpredictably alter blood glucose control.

Contraindications

Not suitable for Type I diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or patients with severe renal, hepatic, or thyroid issues.

Side Effects

• Common: Hypoglycemia, temporary vision issues, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and skin reactions.
• Rare: Severe reactions such as cholestatic jaundice, hematologic abnormalities, and metabolic disorders.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Use only if benefits outweigh risks. Discontinue at least one month before delivery.
• Lactation: Not recommended as Glipizide may be excreted in breast milk.

Precautions & Warnings

• Hypoglycemia: Monitor closely, especially in patients with renal or hepatic impairments.
• Renal/Hepatic Issues: Adjust dosage for patients with impaired function.
• Stress: Blood glucose control may be affected by stress; insulin may be needed if Diactin loses effectiveness.

Therapeutic Class

Sulfonylureas

Storage Conditions

Store at room temperature (below 30°C), protected from moisture and humidity.