Epimeth Tablet is used to treat diabetic nerve pain. Poorly controlled diabetes can eventually lead to diabetic nerve disease (neuropathy) as a complication. This medicine helps to relieve symptoms like burning pain and numbness seen in people with diabetic nerve disease.
Epimeth Tablet belongs to a group of medicines known as Aldose reductase inhibitors. It can be taken with or without food but you should try to take it at the same time every day. This will help you to remember to take it. The dose and how often you need it will be decided by your doctor so that you get the right amount to control your symptoms. It may take up to 3 months to get the full benefits of this medicine, but you should keep taking it regularly. Do not stop taking it without asking your doctor, otherwise, your condition may worsen.
This medicine is only part of a treatment program that should also include a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight reduction as advised by your doctor. You should also continue taking other medicines prescribed by your doctor for blood sugar control. Keeping your blood sugar levels under control will help this medication work better.
The most common side effects of this medicine include nausea, vomiting, and abnormalities in liver function tests (increased liver enzymes). Most side effects are temporary and improve as your body gets used to the medicine. Please consult your doctor if any of these bother you or do not go away.
Before taking this medicine, let your doctor know if you have any kidney or liver problems. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult their doctor before taking this medicine. Avoid any alcohol intake while taking it as this may increase the risk of developing some side effects.
Diabetic nerve pain (diabetic neuropathy) is a common complication of diabetes that causes burning, tingling, or numbness, especially in the feet and legs. Epimeth Tablet is used to help relieve these symptoms by protecting nerves from damage caused by high blood sugar. It aids in improving nerve function and reducing discomfort, allowing better mobility and quality of life for people with diabetes.
Side effects of Epimeth Tablet
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of Epimeth
Nausea
Vomiting
Abnormal liver function
How to use Epimeth Tablet
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Epimeth Tablet may be taken with or without food.
How Epimeth Tablet works
Epimeth Tablet is an aldose reductase inhibitor. It blocks the accumulation of sorbitol in cells, which has been related to causing diabetic nerve disease.
Safety advice
Alcohol
CAUTION
Alcohol should be used with caution while taking Epimeth Tablet.
Pregnancy
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
The safety of Epimeth Tablet during pregnancy has not been established. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, and animal data on reproductive toxicity are insufficient. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing.
Breast feeding
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Epimeth Tablet may be unsafe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug may pass into the breastmilk and harm the baby. It should be used only if the expected benefit outweighs the potential risk. Please consult your doctor.
Driving
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
It is not known whether Epimeth Tablet alters the ability to drive. Do not drive if you experience any symptoms that affect your ability to concentrate and react. Please consult your doctor.
Kidney
CAUTION
Epimeth Tablet should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. Dose adjustment may be needed.
Liver
CAUTION
Epimeth Tablet should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment may be needed.
What if you forget to take Epimeth Tablet?
If you miss a dose of Epimeth Tablet, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
All substitutes
For informational purposes only. Consult a doctor before taking any medicines.
Adherence to antidiabetic therapy can delay the onset of or prevent diabetic nerve disease.
If you have existing diabetic nerve disease, wear proper footwear and examine your feet every day to detect lesions early.
If you have a foot injury or open wound, avoid engaging in weight-bearing activities.
Fact Box
Chemical Class
Carboxylic acid derivative
Habit Forming
No
Therapeutic Class
ANTI DIABETIC
Action Class
Aldose Reductase Inhibitors (ARIs)
FAQs
What is Epimeth Tablet used for?
Epimeth Tablet is used to treat nerve damage caused by diabetes, also known as diabetic neuropathy. It helps improve symptoms such as numbness, tingling, burning pain, and reduced sensation in the hands and feet by protecting and improving nerve function.
Who should not take Epimeth Tablet?
Individuals should not take Epimeth Tablet if they are allergic to it, are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless advised by their doctor, or have severe liver problems. It is also not recommended for children unless specifically prescribed.
What precautions should I take while using Epimeth Tablet?
Before starting Epimeth Tablet, tell your doctor if you have liver problems, kidney issues, or other medical conditions. Regular blood tests may be needed to monitor your liver function during treatment.
What serious side effects can Epimeth Tablet cause?
Although they are rare, serious side effects of Epimeth Tablet include serious allergic reactions, severe skin rashes, and significant liver problems. Seek medical help immediately if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, severe itching, or swelling.
Can Epimeth Tablet cure diabetic neuropathy?
Epimeth Tablet cannot cure diabetic neuropathy, but it can help slow its progression and reduce symptoms. It works best when combined with good blood sugar control and a healthy lifestyle.
How long does it take for Epimeth Tablet to show results?
Improvement in nerve symptoms may take several weeks to months during Epimeth Tablet treatment, depending on the severity of the condition and how well blood sugar is controlled during treatment.
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References
Ramirez MA, Borja NL. Epalrestat: An aldose reductase inhibitor for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. Pharmacotherapy. 2008;28(5):646-55. [Accessed 18 Mar. 2019] (online) Available from:
Hotta N, Akanuma Y, Kawamori R, et al. Long-term clinical effects of epalrestat, an aldose reductase inhibitor, on diabetic peripheral neuropathy: the 3-year, multicenter, comparative Aldose Reductase Inhibitor-Diabetes Complications Trial. Diabetes Care. 2006;29(7):1538-44. [Accessed 27 Mar. 2017] (online) Available from:
MIMS, Malaysia. Epalrestat. [Accessed 25 Jul. 2024] (online) Available from: