EPIMETH TABLET

🦶🧠💊 Epalrestat 150mg Tablet: Nerve Protection for Diabetic Neuropathy Relief

Epalrestat 150mg is an oral aldose reductase inhibitor (ARI) used primarily for the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) — a common complication of long-standing type 2 diabetes mellitus. By targeting the root metabolic cause of nerve damage, Epalrestat helps protect and repair peripheral nerves, thereby relieving symptoms like numbness, tingling, burning sensation, and leg pain in diabetic patients.

It is non-sedative, generally well-tolerated, and suitable for long-term use, making it a valuable therapy in the comprehensive management of diabetic complications.

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🔬 Mechanism of Action

Epalrestat works by inhibiting the enzyme aldose reductase, which plays a key role in the polyol pathway—a glucose metabolism pathway that becomes overactive in diabetics. Under hyperglycemic conditions:

• Excess glucose is converted to sorbitol by aldose reductase.

• Sorbitol accumulates in nerve cells, causing oxidative stress, osmotic imbalance, and nerve damage.

Epalrestat blocks this conversion, thereby:

• Preventing nerve cell damage

• Improving nerve conduction velocity

• Reducing oxidative stress

• Restoring nerve function gradually over time

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📌 Indications and Uses

Epalrestat 150mg is indicated for:

• Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy:

  • Tingling and numbness in feet/hands

  • Burning or stabbing leg pain

  • Loss of temperature or touch sensation

  • Muscle weakness

• Improving nerve function in patients with poorly controlled diabetes

• Preventing further progression of nerve damage in long-term diabetics

It is most effective when used early in the course of neuropathy, ideally alongside tight blood sugar control.

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💊 Dosage and Administration

• Usual adult dose: 150mg once daily, preferably after meals

• Duration of therapy: Long-term use, often for 3 months or more, based on patient response

• Should be taken consistently every day to maintain therapeutic effect

• Swallow the tablet whole with water

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⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• Not recommended for:

  • Pregnant or lactating women

  • Patients with severe liver dysfunction

• Caution in patients with:

  • Hepatic impairment – monitor liver enzymes regularly

  • Elderly patients – adjust dose only if needed

• Should be combined with strict glycemic control for best results

Epalrestat does not lower blood sugar levels—it should be used as an adjunct to antidiabetic therapy.

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🤒 Side Effects

Generally well-tolerated. Possible side effects include:

Common:

• Nausea

• Abdominal discomfort

• Headache

Rare:

• Elevated liver enzymes (reversible)

• Skin rash or itching

• Fatigue or dizziness

Discontinue and consult a physician if jaundice, persistent abdominal pain, or allergic reactions appear.

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🔄 Drug Interactions

• No significant interactions with standard antidiabetic medications

• Safe to use alongside:

  • Metformin

  • Insulin

  • Sulfonylureas

  • ACE inhibitors or ARBs

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🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store at 15–30°C, in a dry place, away from light

• Keep in original packaging

• Keep out of reach of children

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📝 Conclusion

Epalrestat 150mg offers a unique disease-modifying approach to managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy by protecting nerves from metabolic damage rather than simply masking symptoms. It improves nerve health, function, and quality of life in diabetic patients, especially when used early. With good safety and tolerability, it is an important tool in long-term diabetes care.

Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.