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Suggest Effective Alternative Substitute For Istamet

Posted on Mon, 6 Jul 2015

Question: I am a 67 year male diabetic (since 1996) from XXXXXXX I have been prescribed Istamet 50/500 and diamicron. Istamet is very expensive . Could you kindly suggest a substitute.
My blood sugar readings generally remain as
Fasting 160-200
PP 200-220
My email address is YYYY@YYYY

Answered by Dr. Niranjan G (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It is a good drug , new group of anti diabetic drug

Detailed Answer:
Dear sir , greetings from HCM. I understand your problems. I understand that the drug is costly, but it is a very effective drug. moreover your sugar levels are too high you need to stop it getting out of control. you better check your HbA1c, microalbuminuria, lipid profile done. you please discuss with your doctor and start insulin . that is the best now to prevent all the complications. Lifestyle management is the key , you need to cut down carbohydrate diet take more of proteins , finer rich diet , add more green leafy vegetables, friuits, millets, to your diet. At least walk an hour a day . practice yoga and meditation. please do contact us with your report. thank s and wish you good health

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Niranjan G (6 hours later)

Please let me know if I can use generic drugs like Gliclazide in place of Diamicron and Zitamet as a economical substitute for Istamet ?

Answered by Dr. Niranjan G (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes you can use generic drugs .

Detailed Answer:
Dear sir, greetings from HCM , you are using gliclazide, metformin and sitafliptins . yes you meet your doctor and ask for generic drug prescription definitely they will be cheaper .
thanks

Note: For further follow-up, discuss your blood glucose reports with our diabetologist. Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj