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Glimepirid Heumann

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Glimepirid Heumann

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

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Overview of Glimepirid Heumann

Glimepirid Heumann is a prescription-only pharmaceutical preparation containing the active ingredient Glimepiride, an agent used exclusively to manage high blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Manufactured by Heumann Pharma in Germany, this specific brand offers a dedicated formulation for oral use.

Property Description
Active ingredient Glimepiride
Form Tablet (for oral administration)
Pharmacological class Sulfonylurea derivative (Oral Hypoglycemic Agent)
Common use Improving blood sugar control in Type 2 diabetes
Origin Synthetic compound

What Type of Medicine is Glimepirid Heumann?

Glimepirid Heumann belongs to the sulfonylurea derivative class of antidiabetic agents, distinguishing it by its specific mechanism of action, which is clinically recognized for supporting pancreatic function. The Glimepiride ingredient is a synthetic compound, manufactured chemically rather than being derived from natural sources, and is classified as a second-generation sulfonylurea. This classification is primarily prescribed to improve glycemic control in adults with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. The medication is a single-ingredient product supplied as a solid tablet for oral administration. Glimepirid Heumann is typically introduced when high blood sugar cannot be adequately managed through dietary adjustments and increased physical activity alone.


Primary Therapeutic Function and General Action

The core purpose of Glimepiride is to help achieve better blood sugar control by functioning as an insulin secretagogue. This means the drug works by stimulating the beta-cells within the pancreas to increase the release of the body’s own insulin into the blood. This action, coupled with the enhanced responsiveness of peripheral tissues to insulin, facilitates the movement of glucose out of the bloodstream, thereby producing a reliable hypoglycemic effect necessary for managing the disease.

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What side effects are possible with Glimepirid Heumann?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Glimepiride, the active ingredient in Glimepirid Heumann, is officially documented by regulatory authorities, with adverse reactions classified primarily by frequency and the affected body system. As an insulin secretagogue, the most common and expected adverse reaction is hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), which may be classified as common.

Official Adverse Reaction Groupings

Adverse reactions are formally organized into System-Organ Classes (SOC) and assigned a frequency rating based on clinical data. These classifications define the spectrum of risk:

Category Examples of Documented Reactions
Common Hypoglycaemia, transient visual disturbances (at treatment start)
Uncommon Gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., nausea, diarrhoea)
Rare Blood cell changes (e.g., thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, agranulocytosis, aplastic anaemia), allergic vasculitis, severe hepatic impairment
System-Organ Classes Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Hepatobiliary Disorders, Immune System Disorders

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

The regulatory label explicitly notes the potential for severe hypoglycaemia, which can lead to serious neurological consequences. Rare but severe adverse reactions documented include agranulocytosis and aplastic anaemia (blood dyscrasias), as well as hepatic failure.

The official safety information defines specific constraints for use. Glimepirid Heumann is typically contraindicated (should not be used) in patients with Type 1 diabetes mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis, or severe renal or hepatic function disorders. Safety notes also indicate that patients with G6PD deficiency are at risk for haemolytic anaemia. Furthermore, transient visual disturbances are commonly noted as occurring at the beginning of treatment due to initial blood sugar fluctuations.

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Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose of Glimepirid Heumann is classified in regulatory documents as a serious event resulting in severe, prolonged hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). The resulting clinical manifestations are categorized into two groups. Autonomic symptoms may include sweating, clammy skin, anxiety, tremor, and rapid heartbeat. These may progress to neuroglycopenic sequelae, such as confusion, stupor, slurred speech, visual disorders, and ultimately, seizures or loss of consciousness.

The official labeling emphasizes that severe hypoglycemia carries the risk of temporary or permanent impairment of brain function and may lead to death. Urgent medical attention is mandated when signs progress to collapse, convulsions, or inability to be awakened. Immediate intervention for a conscious patient requires the ingestion of simple carbohydrates (sugar) to prevent escalation.

In a clinical setting, management involves intravenous Dextrose (glucose), along with the administration of Octreotide, an agent documented to suppress insulin release and prevent recurrent hypoglycemia. Due to the drug's duration of action, hospital observation and frequent blood glucose assessment are required for a period of 12 to 24 hours after the cessation of initial treatments. Special consideration is noted for young children, who face a high risk of life-threatening hypoglycemia, and for the elderly or those with renal impairment.

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Therapeutic Uses of Glimepirid Heumann

Glimepirid Heumann is commonly used to help with the core management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. The medication plays a role in managing systemic imbalance related to blood sugar. It is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed to address this imbalance, in situations involving Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.


Achieving Balanced Blood Sugar Levels

This therapeutic domain is relevant for easing symptoms related to systemic imbalance, specifically symptoms linked to organ-specific functional stress caused by elevated blood sugar. Glimepirid Heumann is relevant for managing symptom clusters that interfere with daily comfort. By helping to maintain a sense of stability, it contributes to easing the overall symptom load during periods of heightened symptoms.

“It helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive and interfere with daily comfort.”

Quick Fact: Supports Systemic Stability


Reducing Risk of Long-Term Complications

Glimepiride is commonly used across conditions characterized by long-term physiological stress. It offers symptomatic relief that helps patients cope more steadily with the potential progression of the disease. This supportive relief may assist with managing the chronic symptomatic burden and may assist with maintaining functional stability, and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview
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Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Glimepirid Heumann?

The eligibility profile for Glimepirid Heumann is strictly defined by regulatory authorities and focuses on diagnosis, metabolic stability, and population status. The medicine is indicated solely for Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Eligibility Scope Regulatory Status
Populations for whom use is allowed: Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated: Patients with hypersensitivity to glimepiride, other sulfonylureas, or sulfonamide derivatives.
Age-related eligibility rules: Use is not recommended in children and adolescents under 18 years due to insufficient data.
Condition-specific eligibility rules: Contraindicated in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis, and severe renal or hepatic function disorders.
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status: Pregnancy: Not recommended; switch to insulin is required. Lactation: Contraindicated (must not be used by breastfeeding women).
Eligibility-related restrictions: Must be temporarily discontinued in states of acute stress, such as major trauma, surgery, or severe infection.

Eligibility Classifications (High-Level)

Classification Regulatory Wording
Eligibility severity classification: Absolute Contraindication, Not Recommended, Conditional Use.
Eligibility-context constraints: Constraints linked to physiological states (Lactation, Pregnancy), organ function, diagnosis, and acute clinical scenarios.

Resulting Eligibility Structure

Official eligibility statements:

  • The drug is absolutely contraindicated in patients with Type 1 diabetes and severe metabolic states.
  • Individuals with known allergy to sulfonamides or sulfonylureas must not use this medicine.
  • Use is officially not recommended for the pediatric population or for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile: Regulatory documents establish a clear barrier for use based on underlying diagnosis and metabolic state, strictly permitting the drug only for adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Use is prohibited or restricted when severe organ impairment is present, or during specific physiological stages that require a switch to alternative therapy.

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What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Glimepirid Heumann (Glimepiride) has documented interaction patterns with several medicinal products and substances that can alter its systemic exposure or modify its primary blood-glucose-lowering effect.

Pharmacokinetic and Timing Constraints

The co-administration of Oral Miconazole is associated with a risk of severe hypoglycemia and must be strictly restricted. Glimepiride is metabolized by the enzyme Cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9). Inhibitors of this enzyme, such as Fluconazole, can significantly increase Glimepiride’s plasma exposure (AUC). Conversely, Rifampicin can alter glimepiride plasma concentrations via induction of this enzyme. The bile acid sequestrant Colesevelam reduces Glimepiride's absorption, resulting in lower maximum plasma concentrations. To manage this effect, Glimepiride must be administered at least 4 hours prior to Colesevelam.

Pharmacodynamic Effects

Interactions that potentiate the blood-glucose-lowering effect (increasing hypoglycemia risk) include those with Insulin, other oral antidiabetic agents, and certain medications like Salicylates and MAO-inhibitors. Conversely, agents such as Glucocorticoids and Thiazide Diuretics are documented to weaken the blood-glucose-lowering effect. Certain Sympatholytic Medicinal Products (e.g., Beta-blockers) may mask the signs of the body’s counter-regulation to hypoglycemia. Furthermore, alcohol consumption may potentiate or weaken the hypoglycaemic action in an unpredictable fashion. Glimepiride may also either potentiate or weaken the effects of Coumarin derivatives.

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Mechanism of Action

How Glimepirid Heumann Works

Glimepirid Heumann, containing glimepiride, exerts its primary action by targeting the Sulfonylurea Receptor 1 (SUR1), a specific subunit of the ATP-sensitive Potassium Channel ( K ATP Channel) located on the membrane of pancreatic beta cells. Binding to this receptor acts as an inhibitor, forcing the closure of the channel and stopping the efflux of potassium ions.

This molecular interaction results in beta cell membrane depolarization, which activates voltage-dependent calcium channels ( VDCCs). The resulting influx of calcium ions triggers the insulin secretion cascade, promoting the exocytosis of stored insulin into the systemic circulation. This increased systemic insulin subsequently drives the uptake of glucose into cells.

Additionally, the mechanism extends to extrapancreatic tissues, where it enhances peripheral glucose utilization. This effect involves improving the responsiveness of muscle and fat cells to insulin, facilitating glucose transport across the cell membrane and contributing to the overall physiological regulation of glucose.

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Dosage and Administration Information

Glimepirid Heumann is a pharmaceutical preparation supplied as an oral tablet for long-term treatment. The usage protocol is defined by a standardized once-daily regimen and a structured dose-finding process, based on the official instructions.

Administration and Timing

The Glimepiride tablet is intended to be ingested orally once daily. A key instruction requires the tablet to be taken with breakfast or the first main meal of the day to align drug activity with glucose absorption. If a dose is forgotten, the official instruction is that it should not be corrected by taking a double dose at the next scheduled time.

Dosing and Adjustment

Treatment typically initiates with a low starting dose, often 1 mg or 2 mg once daily. The dose is not fixed but is part of a titration process where adjustments are made gradually, usually in increments of 1 mg or 2 mg at 1 to 2 week intervals, guided by therapeutic response. The maximum daily dose officially recommended is 8 mg.

Population-Specific Rules

Specific initial dosing guidelines apply to certain patient populations. For older adults and those with renal impairment, a conservative starting dose of 1 mg once daily is specified in prescribing information. Furthermore, the use of Glimepiride is not recommended for pediatric patients. The tablet must be swallowed whole with water, and specific timing constraints, such as taking Glimepiride at least four hours prior to colesevelam administration, are required where applicable.

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Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Glimepirid Heumann


Evidence for Managing Blood Sugar in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Glimepiride was evaluated in research exploring high blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 diabetes. This evidence comes from Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and observational studies. Research has examined Glimepiride both as a single initial treatment (monotherapy) and when observed to be added to an existing treatment, such as Metformin.

When evaluated as a single treatment, short-term research describes patterns observed in which blood sugar markers, including Glycated Hemoglobin ( HbA1 c) and Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG), experienced measured changes over observation periods typically lasting up to one year. However, outcomes beyond one year, specifically those related to non-glycemic complications, are not consistently characterized in monotherapy-specific trials.

When used in combination with other anti-diabetic medications, studies have explored how Glimepiride was associated with outcomes when added to existing therapy. Evidence from observational studies is subject to confounding factors because patients were not randomly assigned, meaning evidence quality varies across studies, limiting general conclusions.


Research on Long-Term Outcomes and Durability

The long-term evidence has been studied primarily through large-scale, long-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), often referred to as Cardiovascular Outcome Trials (CVOTs). These studies examined major health events over observation periods spanning five to six years. Research monitored the frequency of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE), including cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and non-fatal stroke, as well as all-cause mortality.

Trial designs focused on collecting data to assess non-inferiority between the groups observed in the study. This means the research explored whether the use of Glimepiride was associated with similar rates of major cardiovascular events when compared to the specific treatments observed in the trial. The research does not establish superiority for major cardiovascular outcomes compared to other treatments evaluated in the studies.


Studies on Functional Markers and Mechanisms

Research has studied Glimepiride using controlled, short-term mechanistic trials exploring observed associations between Glimepiride and metabolic markers. These studies monitored changes in certain physiological markers that act as surrogate measures of pancreatic function. Researchers examined calculated markers such as the Homeostasis Model Assessment ( HOMA beta-cell) and levels of C-peptide in the blood.

What remains uncertain is the significance of relying on these surrogate markers rather than direct, long-term clinical outcomes. There is limited information for long-term outcomes to explore the sustained functional patterns beyond the initial few months of observation reported in this research.


Evidence Landscape in Specific Patient Groups

The research has included a variety of adult populations with Type 2 diabetes, often enrolling individuals with pre-existing or higher cardiovascular risk factors and individuals with long-standing disease duration. Studies were also conducted in specific older adult groups.

Research examined how Glimepiride was associated with outcomes in these varying groups, monitoring the frequency of major cardiovascular events or the measured changes in blood sugar markers. The results apply only to the populations studied in those trials.

However, data for certain groups remain insufficient. For instance, evidence is limited for women who are pregnant, and comparative evidence for outcomes beyond blood sugar control remains limited when assessing other agents observed in the trials.


Gaps in the Research Record

The current research contains several areas of uncertainty. Long-term effects related to outcomes beyond the cardiovascular events are not fully established, and there is limited information for long-term outcomes to explore the durability of blood sugar control and preservation of metabolic function over many years. Furthermore, subgroup findings are uncertain in some populations. The research provides context but not individual predictions of how a patient will respond.

Key Studies & References

  1. Glimepiride: StatPearls [Internet] - NCBI Bookshelf
  2. Glimepiride: MedlinePlus Drug Information - National Library of Medicine
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Glimepirid Heumann (FAQ)

Q: How quickly does Glimepirid Heumann start affecting blood sugar levels?

A: The onset of the drug's action is typically observed within 2 to 3 hours after taking the tablet. Official information describes the onset timing based on its pharmacological data, which is a reflection of the drug's activity.

Q: Is it common for people to feel dizzy when first starting Glimepirid Heumann?

A: Yes, according to official adverse reaction data, dizziness is listed as one of the common adverse reactions reported in clinical trials. These effects may be observed as the body adjusts to the initial changes in blood sugar levels.

Q: What is the difference between Glimepiride and Glimepirid Heumann?

A: Glimepiride is the name of the active pharmaceutical ingredient that helps manage blood sugar. Glimepirid Heumann is the specific brand name of the medicine, which is manufactured and supplied as a pharmaceutical product containing the active ingredient Glimepiride.

Q: What are the signs that Glimepirid Heumann may not be working effectively?

A: Official guidance states that the drug may be considered insufficiently effective if blood sugar control is unsatisfactory. This situation may be recognized by the return or persistence of symptoms related to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), such as increased feelings of thirst or frequent urination.

Q: What is the duration of action typically observed for Glimepirid Heumann?

A: The duration of the drug's activity is described in regulatory documents as approximately 24 hours. This characteristic supports its usual once-daily dosing regimen described in official documents.

Q: What should I do if I experience nausea after starting Glimepirid Heumann?

A: Nausea is documented as an uncommon and typically transient side effect associated with the medicine. Regulatory sources describe that these gastrointestinal symptoms are generally transient and may resolve during continued treatment.

Q: Can Glimepirid Heumann affect mental clarity or mood?

A: Official warnings note that severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which is a risk with this medication, can lead to neurological symptoms. These symptoms may include changes in mood, such as irritability, and feelings of confusion or impaired concentration.

Q: Can Glimepirid Heumann be taken by people who are sensitive to sulfa drugs?

A: According to regulatory documents, this medicine is contraindicated (must not be used) in patients with a history of an allergic reaction or hypersensitivity to sulfonylureas or to sulfonamide derivatives, often referred to as sulfa drugs.

Q: Are there any known long-term side effects associated with Glimepirid Heumann use?

A: Official information from regulatory documents notes that certain effects, such as weight gain and the potential for fluid retention, have been documented. These factors are considered when evaluating the use of the medicine over a long period.

Q: Does Glimepirid Heumann cause weight gain or weight loss in most people?

A: Weight gain is a documented side effect observed in clinical studies and is an effect associated with this class of medicines (sulfonylureas) in general.

Q: How does Glimepirid Heumann relate to other sulfonylureas?

A: Glimepiride is chemically classified as a second-generation sulfonylurea derivative. This places it in the evolution of antidiabetic agents that retain the core function of stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas.

Q: Why is Glimepirid Heumann sometimes prescribed along with metformin?

A: Combination therapy may be initiated when blood sugar control is deemed unsatisfactory using a single agent, such as Metformin, alone. Adding Glimepirid Heumann is intended to provide a different mechanism of action to help achieve improved metabolic control.

Q: Is it possible to develop a tolerance to Glimepirid Heumann over time?

A: Official documents refer to the possibility of unsatisfactory blood sugar control over the course of treatment. When this occurs, changes to the dosage or discontinuation of the therapy may be considered.

Q: Can Glimepirid Heumann cause skin reactions or sensitivity to the sun?

A: Documented adverse reactions include several types of skin reactions, such as a rash or hives (urticaria), which are associated with hypersensitivity. These skin reactions are listed in the official safety information.

Q: Are there any specific food items that must be avoided when taking Glimepirid Heumann?

A: Official product information primarily focuses on the potential interaction with alcohol, which can unpredictably alter the blood sugar-lowering effect. Otherwise, the medicine is instructed to be taken with the first main meal of the day.

Q: Is Glimepirid Heumann known to interact with blood pressure medications?

A: Yes, the official interaction sections list certain blood pressure and heart-related medicines, such as beta-blockers and thiazide diuretics, that can potentially alter the drug's effect. Some agents may also mask the typical symptoms of low blood sugar.

Q: Does Glimepirid Heumann contain lactose or gluten?

A: The regulatory product information for Glimepiride tablets confirms that the formulation contains lactose monohydrate as a non-active ingredient (excipient).

Q: What is the function of Glimepirid Heumann beyond lowering blood sugar?

A: In addition to stimulating insulin release from the pancreas, official documents note that the drug has extrapancreatic effects. These effects include improving the responsiveness, or sensitivity, of peripheral tissues (such as muscle and fat cells) to insulin.

Q: What is the history of Glimepiride as a treatment option?

A: Glimepiride is chemically synthesized and is classified by pharmacological experts as a second-generation sulfonylurea. This places it in the evolution of antidiabetic agents that work by stimulating insulin release.

Q: What is the link between Glimepirid Heumann and Vitamin B12 levels?

A: Based on current official drug interaction information available from authoritative sources, no direct interaction has been documented between glimepiride and a patient's Vitamin B12 levels.

Q: How does Glimepirid Heumann compare to insulin injections in terms of how it works?

A: Glimepirid Heumann is a secretagogue, meaning it works by stimulating the body's own pancreas to release more stored insulin. In contrast, insulin injections involve administering the insulin hormone directly into the body from an external source.

Q: Are there restrictions on driving or operating machinery while on Glimepirid Heumann?

A: Official warnings state that hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), a risk associated with this medication, can impair concentration and reaction time. This impairment may pose a risk during activities like driving or operating machinery.

Q: What common questions do doctors get about switching from a different diabetes drug to Glimepirid Heumann?

A: Regulatory documents address the process of switching from other longer-acting sulfonylurea agents. Official guidance indicates that close monitoring for a few weeks is typically considered to mitigate the potential for overlapping blood sugar-lowering effects between the two drugs.

Q: What are the general expectations for a patient starting this medication?

A: The primary expectation is to work towards improved control of blood sugar ( HbA1 c) with a single daily dose, typically alongside dietary adjustments and physical activity. The importance of monitoring for the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is also officially noted.

Q: What research is available on Glimepirid Heumann's use in younger adults?

A: Regulatory documents state that the use of Glimepiride is not recommended in children and adolescents. However, the medicine has been evaluated in clinical studies involving pediatric subjects with Type 2 diabetes to gather safety and efficacy information.

Q: What are the typical expected outcomes described in clinical trials for Glimepirid Heumann?

A: Clinical trials have consistently shown that treatment with this medicine results in statistically significant improvements in key blood sugar markers. These markers include Glycated Hemoglobin ( HbA1 c) and Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) when compared to a placebo.

Q: Is it necessary to carry an emergency glucose source while using Glimepirid Heumann?

A: Since the medication carries a risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can sometimes be severe, official warnings emphasize the need for prompt management. Prompt management of hypoglycemic symptoms often involves having a quick source of oral glucose readily available.

Q: What happens if I stop taking Glimepirid Heumann suddenly?

A: Stopping the medication abruptly would likely result in a loss of glycemic control and a return to high blood sugar levels. Official warnings indicate that sustained high blood sugar is associated with the long-term complications of diabetes.

Q: Can Glimepirid Heumann affect the results of laboratory blood tests?

A: Yes, the drug is specifically intended to affect the results of blood tests used to monitor diabetes, such as HbA1 c and Fasting Plasma Glucose. Additionally, official information notes that rare changes in blood cell counts (like leukopenia) have been documented as adverse reactions.

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How should Glimepirid Heumann be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Glimepirid Heumann?

Official Storage Requirements

Glimepirid tablets must be stored at controlled room temperature, typically 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F), with permitted excursions up to 30 C. It is mandatory to keep the tablets in the closed container in which they were dispensed and store them out of the sight and reach of children.

To ensure product stability, the medication must be protected from excess heat and moisture and must not be frozen.

Official Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Glimepirid should be discarded using a drug take-back program. If a take-back site is unavailable, the medicine must be disposed of in household trash by mixing the tablets with an unappealing substance, such as dirt or used coffee grounds, and sealing the mixture in a bag. Do not crush the tablets and do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down a drain.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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