Duetact (Pioglitazone/Glimepiride)

Description

Indications

The combination of pioglitazone and glimepiride is employed, alongside a proper diet and exercise regimen, to address elevated blood sugar levels associated with type 2 diabetes. Pioglitazone functions by improving the body’s utilization of insulin, enhancing its effectiveness in regulating blood sugar. Glimepiride stimulates the pancreas to release insulin, facilitating the conversion of food into energy within the body. Together, these actions contribute to the overall control of blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Uses and Dosage

Take this medication orally as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily with your first main meal of the day.

The prescribed dosage is determined based on your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment.

Colesevelam can impact the absorption of glimepiride. If you are taking colesevelam, make sure to take this product at least 4 hours before taking colesevelam.

To derive the maximum benefit from this medication, use it regularly and consistently, taking it at the same time each day. Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and share the results with your doctor.

It may take 2 to 3 months before you experience the full benefits of this drug.

If you are transitioning from individual diabetes drugs to this combination product, your doctor may instruct you to check your blood sugar more frequently initially to ensure that you do not experience a sudden drop in blood sugar levels (hypoglycemic reaction) when starting this product.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• body aches or pain
• cough
• diarrhea
• difficulty with moving
• dryness or soreness of the throat
• ear congestion
• fever
• hoarseness
• joint pain
• loss of voice
• muscle aching or cramping
• muscle pains or stiffness
• runny nose
• sneezing
• stuffy nose
• swollen joints
• tender, swollen glands in the neck
• tooth disorder
• trouble swallowing
• voice changes

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• anxiety
• bladder pain
• bloody or cloudy urine
• blurred vision
• chills
• cold sweats
• coma
• confusion
• cool, pale skin
• depression
• difficult, burning, or painful urination
• fast heartbeat
• frequent urge to urinate
• headache
• increased hunger
• increased weight
• lower back or side pain
• nausea
• nightmares
• seizures
• shakiness
• slurred speech
• swelling of the feet or lower legs
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Caution

• Before taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to pioglitazone, glimepiride, or other “glitazones” (such as rosiglitazone), or to other sulfonylureas (such as glipizide, tolbutamide), or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in this product may also cause allergic reactions or other issues.
• Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medication, especially if you have a history of heart problems, fluid in your lungs, swelling (edema, fluid retention), liver problems, kidney disease, thyroid problems, certain hormonal conditions (adrenal/pituitary insufficiency, syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone-SIADH), mineral imbalance, anemia, eye problems, or if you have a history of bladder cancer.
• Be cautious about activities requiring alertness or clear vision, as you may experience blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness due to extremely low or high blood sugar. Avoid driving, using machinery, or engaging in activities that demand alertness until you are sure you can perform them safely.
• Limit alcohol intake while on this medication as it can increase the risk of developing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
• In situations of stress on your body, such as fever, infection, injury, or surgery, it may be harder to control your blood sugar. Consult your doctor in such cases, as you may require a change in your treatment plan, medications, or blood sugar testing.
• This medication may heighten sensitivity to the sun, so limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen with protective clothing when outdoors. Notify your doctor if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness.
• In female patients, there is an increased risk of bone fractures while using this medication. Exercise caution during activities like contact sports to lower the chance of injury.
• Older adults may be at a greater risk of low blood sugar while using this drug.
• This medication can induce changes in the menstrual cycle and increase the risk of pregnancy. Consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the use of reliable birth control while taking this medication.
• During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly needed, as pregnancy may cause or worsen diabetes. Discuss a plan with your doctor for managing blood sugar during pregnancy. If this medication is used during pregnancy, it may be switched to insulin at least 2 weeks before the expected delivery date due to the risk of causing low blood sugar in the newborn. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
• It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Duetact is available in the following forms and strengths:

• pioglitazone and glimepiride tablet:
  • 15 / 1 mg

FAQ

Can Duetact cause weight gain?

Yes, weight gain is one of the more common side effects reported by people who took Duetact. Both pioglitazone and glimepiride are known to cause weight gain. Some of the weight gained from Duetact might be related to swelling from fluid.

Can you drink coffee while taking Duetact?

Coffee can increase blood sugar in some individuals, which may counteract the effects of antidiabetic drugs like Duetact.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/duetact/what-is#faqs
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/glipizide-oral-tablet#:~:text=Glipizide%2C%20Oral%20Tablet&text=Glipizide%20oral%20tablet%20is%20available,names%3A%20Glucotrol%20and%20Glucotrol%20XL
3. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/021925s010s011lbl.pdf
4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/pioglitazone-and-glimepiride-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20068956
5. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-144983/duetact-oral/details
6. https://www.drugs.com/duetact.html