Riomet

What is Riomet?

Riomet is an oral drug which belongs to the class of drugs known as biguanides.

What is Riomet used for?

Riomet is prescribed along with a proper diet and fitness regimen to keep blood sugar in control in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes (type 2 diabetes). Lowering high blood sugar, in turn, reduces risks of blindness, kidney damage, nerve problems, loss of limbs, heart attack, stroke or sexual function problems. However, it should be kept in mind that this medicine does not treat type 1 diabetes.

How does Riomet work?

Riomet restores the body’s response to its naturally produced insulin thereby decreasing sugar production in liver. Subsequently there is a reduction in the amount of sugar absorbed in small intestine or stomach.

How to use Riomet

Riomet should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. Taking the drug for longer time or in larger amount than prescribed may prove to be harmful. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Riomet is usually taken orally twice a day, with food. Measure the correct dose with a measuring device provided by your pharmacist.

The drug may be prescribed along with insulin or vitamin B12.

Riomet is part of a complete regimen which consists of diet control, weight control and exercise. Hence it is important to follow the entire program.

The drug should be taken regularly to get the maximum benefit.

Do not stop your dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve at all or becomes worse consult your doctor immediately.

Riomet warnings and precautions

Riomet is not administered to patients who are allergic to metformin or who suffer from a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. Patients who have congestive heart failure, liver or kidney disease, severe dehydration, alcohol dependence, or severe infection soon discuss the risk of the fatal condition called lactic acidosis with their doctors due to using Riomet. 

While taking this drug your blood sugar needs to be checked regularly, especially if you have to travel, skip meals, exercise or undergo stress.

The drug may be stopped temporarily if you are severely ill, have an infection or are going to have a surgery or a medical procedure done (X-Ray or CT scan which needs a dye to be injected into the veins). You should talk to your doctor regarding this.

The drug is not recommended for children younger than 10 years of age.

Riomet is not expected to be harmful to a fetus. It is also not known whether it passes through breast milk and cause harm to a nursing baby. Still, pregnant and lactating women are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of taking the drug with their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Riomet dose?

If you have missed a Riomet dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not take a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Riomet overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Riomet, seek medical attention immediately.

Riomet interactions

Drugs like diuretics, heart/blood pressure medication, thyroid medicine, asthma, cold and allergy medication, seizure medication, birth control pills, steroids, isoniazid, phenothiazines, niacin can increase your blood sugar levels and can cause hyperglycemia when taken along with Riomet. You should avoid taking these medicines along with Riomet.

Some other drugs which may also interact with this medicine are: amiloride, furosemide, cimetidine, digoxin, nifedipine, vancomycin, quinidine, procainamide, trimethoprim, or morphine.

It is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before using Riomet.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Riomet side effects

Side effects from Riomet include allergic reactions such as swelling, hives, redness of skin etc. as well as some serious symptoms such as shortness of breath, flu symptoms, fever, chills, or rapid weight gain.

In some people use of Riomet can cause a fatal condition known as lactic acidosis. The early symptoms of lactic acidosis are: troubled breathing, muscle weakness, numbness or coldness in hands and feet, dizziness, light-headedness, severe weakness, slow and uneven heart rate, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

Headache, weakness, stomach pain, mild nausea, diarrhea, gas, vomiting are some less serious side effects of Riomet.