Diatin

Indications

Qurs Ziabit is a Unani tablet (qurs means tablet; ziabit refers to diabetes) made from a blend of herbs that are traditionally believed to help control blood sugar, such as gurmar (Gymnema), jamun seed, bitter gourd and fenugreek, depending on the maker. It is traditionally used as a supportive remedy for people with type 2 diabetes, alongside diet and exercise. Scientific evidence is limited. It is not a cure for diabetes and must never replace insulin or diabetes medicines prescribed by a doctor.

How It Works

The herbs in such formulas are thought to work in several ways: reducing the absorption of sugar from the gut, reducing sugar cravings, and helping the body use insulin better. The size of these effects in people is uncertain and varies between products.

Dosage and Administration

Take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner, usually with or after meals. Do not take more than the label amount. Not for children unless a doctor advises it.

Interactions

It may add to the effect of diabetes medicines such as Metformin, Glibenclamide, Gliclazide or insulin and cause low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia). Some herbs in these formulas, such as fenugreek, may also increase the effect of blood thinners like Warfarin. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you use.

Contraindications

• Type 1 diabetes as a replacement for insulin.
• Known allergy to any ingredient.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, unless a doctor advises it.
• Children.

Side Effects

Possible side effects include stomach upset, gas, loose stools, nausea and a bitter taste. The most important risk is low blood sugar when it is taken together with diabetes medicines.

Get urgent medical help if you notice signs of low blood sugar that do not improve after taking sugar (shaking, sweating, fast heartbeat, confusion, fainting), signs of very high blood sugar (extreme thirst, passing a lot of urine, drowsiness, vomiting), or swelling of the face, lips or throat with difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Diabetes in pregnancy needs close medical care, usually with insulin. Do not use this product during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless a doctor advises it.

Precautions and Warnings

Keep taking your prescribed diabetes medicines and check your blood sugar regularly, especially when starting this product. Tell your doctor you are taking it, as your medicine doses may need adjusting. Learn the signs of low blood sugar and keep sugar or glucose with you. People with kidney or liver disease should talk to a doctor first.

Overdose

Taking too much may cause low blood sugar and stomach upset. If low blood sugar occurs, take sugar, glucose or a sweet drink straight away and seek medical help if it does not improve quickly.

Therapeutic Class

Unani herbal preparation (traditional blood sugar support).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.