Information about Vigocil (Voglibose)
Vigocil is a medication that contains Voglibose as its active ingredient. Voglibose is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that helps control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It works by delaying the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose in the intestine, which reduces the post-meal rise in blood sugar levels. It is often used in combination with other antidiabetic medications, such as insulin or oral hypoglycemics, to help improve blood sugar control.
Product Highlights
- To improve glycemic control, particularly postprandial (after-meal) blood glucose levels, in adults with type 2 diabetes.
- It is usually prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes diet, exercise, and sometimes other diabetes medications.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Voglibose effectively lowers the spike in blood sugar levels after eating by delaying the digestion of carbohydrates.
- When used as part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan, it helps to stabilize blood sugar levels and improve overall glycemic control.
- Unlike some other diabetic medications, Voglibose typically does not cause weight gain, and may even help with modest weight reduction due to its effect on carbohydrate digestion.
- It is often used in combination with other antidiabetic agents, such as sulfonylureas or metformin, to enhance blood sugar control.
Direction of Use
- Voglibose is usually taken orally in the form of a tablet.
- The usual starting dose is 0.2 mg three times a day with each meal. This can be adjusted based on the patient’s blood glucose response and as advised by the healthcare provider.
- Voglibose should be taken at the beginning of each meal to help delay the digestion of carbohydrates.
- It is important to regularly monitor blood sugar levels to ensure the proper dose is being used and to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
Safety Concerns
- Common side effects of Voglibose include flatulence, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and bloating, particularly when starting the medication. These symptoms typically improve over time as the body adjusts to the drug.
- Voglibose by itself does not cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), but when used in combination with other antidiabetic drugs like insulin or sulfonylureas, the risk of hypoglycemia may increase.
- Although rare, there have been reports of elevated liver enzymes in some patients. Regular liver function tests may be recommended during prolonged treatment.
- Severe allergic reactions to Voglibose are rare but may include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, and difficulty breathing. Prompt medical attention is required if these occur.
Avoid Vigocil (Voglibose) If
- You are allergic to Voglibose or any of its components.
- You have inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) or intestinal obstruction, as Voglibose may worsen these conditions.
- You have a history of severe liver disease or renal insufficiency.
- You have severe or uncontrolled type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis, as Voglibose is not suitable for such conditions.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding unless specifically recommended by a doctor, as the safety of Voglibose during pregnancy and lactation is not fully established.
- You are currently taking certain other medications that may interfere with Voglibose's action or absorption, including other antidiabetic drugs or gastrointestinal medications.
