Epalrestat+methylcobalamin
About
Epalrestat+methylcobalamin is a combination medicine indicated for the management of diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is a condition in which nerve damage occurs due to high blood glucose levels. It primarily damages the nerves in the legs and feet. Diabetic neuropathic pain is common in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Epalrestat+methylcobalamin contains Epalrestat and Methylcobalamin. Epalrestat works by inhibiting the aldose reductase enzyme, which catalyses the conversion of glucose to sorbitol, thereby preventing the accumulation of sorbitol. Accumulation of sorbitol occurs due to hyperglycaemia in patients suffering from diabetes which leads to nerve pain. Methylcobalamin helps in the rejuvenation and protection of damaged nerve cells by producing a substance called myelin. Together, Epalrestat+methylcobalamin helps in treating diabetic neuropathy.
You are advised to take Epalrestat+methylcobalamin for as long as your doctor has prescribed it for you, depending on your medical condition. In some cases, you may experience certain common side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, and headache. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Epalrestat+methylcobalamin may cause drowsiness and dizziness, so drive only if you are alert. Epalrestat+methylcobalamin is not recommended for children as safety and effectiveness have not been established. Avoid consuming alcohol with Epalrestat+methylcobalamin as it could lead to increased drowsiness and dizziness. Keep your doctor informed about your health condition and medicines to rule out any side effects/interactions.
Uses of Epalrestat+methylcobalamin
Medicinal Benefits
Epalrestat+methylcobalamin is a combination of two drugs, namely: Epalrestat and Methylcobalamin. Epalrestat+methylcobalamin is indicated for the management of diabetic neuropathy. Epalrestat works by inhibiting the aldose reductase enzyme, which catalyses the conversion of glucose to sorbitol. This prevents the accumulation of sorbitol. Accumulation of sorbitol occurs due to hyperglycaemia in patients suffering from diabetes which leads to nerve pain. Methylcobalamin helps in the rejuvenation and protection of damaged nerve cells by producing a substance called myelin. Together, Epalrestat+methylcobalamin helps in treating diabetic neuropathy.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Epalrestat+methylcobalamin
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Diarrhoea
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Do not take Epalrestat+methylcobalamin if you are allergic to any of its components. Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Epalrestat+methylcobalamin may cause drowsiness and dizziness, so drive only if you are alert. Epalrestat+methylcobalamin is not recommended for children as safety and effectiveness have not been established. Avoid consuming alcohol with Epalrestat+methylcobalamin as it could lead to increased drowsiness and sleepiness.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Epalrestat+methylcobalamin may interact with antibiotic (chloramphenicol) and anti-diabetic (metformin).
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform your doctor if you have severe liver or kidney dysfunction.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionAvoid consumption of alcohol while taking Epalrestat+methylcobalamin as it may cause increased dizziness.
Pregnancy
cautionPlease consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding this; your doctor will prescribe only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionConsult your doctor before taking Epalrestat+methylcobalamin; your doctor will decide whether Epalrestat+methylcobalamin can be taken by breastfeeding mothers or not.
Driving
cautionEpalrestat+methylcobalamin may cause dizziness. Do not drive or operate machinery unless you are alert.
Liver
cautionLimited information is available regarding the use of Epalrestat+methylcobalamin in patients with liver disease. Please consult your doctor.
Kidney
cautionLimited information is available regarding the use of Epalrestat+methylcobalamin in patients with kidney impairment. Please consult your doctor.
Children
cautionEpalrestat+methylcobalamin should not be given to children as safety and efficacy have not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Include food rich in vitamin B and D in your diet.
- Include cayenne pepper in your diet as it can help in lowering neuropathic pain.
- Exercising regularly helps in improving overall health and combating pain.
- Rest well, get plenty of sleep.
- Try taking a warm bath as it can be soothing.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Meditation and yoga can help lower stress, decrease pain sensitivity and improves coping skills.
- Acupuncture can be helpful by stimulating pressure points.
- Using essential oils for massages can help increase circulation.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Diabetic neuropathy: Diabetic neuropathy is a condition in which nerve damage occurs due to high blood glucose levels. It mostly damages the nerves in the legs and feet. Diabetic neuropathic pain is common in patients with type1 and type2 diabetes, which usually develops slowly. The pain could be intermittent or continuous, which is felt as a prickling, stabbing, tingling or burning sensation. A feeling of numbness and loss of sensations is also common with neuropathic pain. Symptoms include spontaneous, untriggered pain, unpleasant feeling, shooting, burning or stabbing pain, difficulty with coordination when walking, difficulty resting or sleeping, and evoked pain (pain caused by events that are usually not painful).
FAQs
Epalrestat+methylcobalamin is a combination of two drugs, namely: Epalrestat and Methylcobalamin. Epalrestat prevents the accumulation of sorbitol by inhibiting the aldose reductase enzyme, which catalyses the conversion of glucose to sorbitol. Methylcobalamin helps in the rejuvenation and protection of damaged nerve cells by producing a substance called myelin. Together, Epalrestat+methylcobalamin helps in treating diabetic neuropathy.
Diarrhoea could be a side-effect of Epalrestat+methylcobalamin. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and consume non-spicy meals if you experience diarrhoea. Consult your doctor if you have severe diarrhoea.
Inform your doctor if you notice any cut/sore on your feet that is not healing or if you have a tingling/burning sensation in your feet/arms causing a hamper to the daily routine. If you experience trouble in sexual function, digestion, or urination, please consult a doctor. Examine your feet daily for lesions and wear proper footwear to prevent diabetic neuropathy.
Do not discontinue Epalrestat+methylcobalamin without consulting your doctor. To treat your condition effectually, continue taking Epalrestat+methylcobalamin for as long as prescribed. Do not be reluctant to speak with your doctor if you feel any difficulty while taking Epalrestat+methylcobalamin.
Epalrestat+methylcobalamin may cause peripheral oedema. Peripheral oedema is the swelling of the hands and lower legs. Avoid sitting or standing for too long. Raise your legs by putting a pillow under the legs while lying down.
Epalrestat+methylcobalamin does not help in controlling diabetes. Epalrestat+methylcobalamin is indicated to treat neuropathic pain. It is recommended to adhere to your diabetic medicines to keep your blood sugar levels at normal.
