Metformin and Glimipride Tablets

Metformin and Glimipride Tablets come with the brand name “GLIFUR-G2” and belong to a “Sulfonylurea” class of drugs. This composition consists of Metformin and Glimipride. Metformin belongs to a group of anti-diabetic medicines called biguanides used in the treatment of diabetes. It is prescribed for the condition of type 2 diabetes when diet and exercise alone cannot control blood sugar levels. It is the first-line therapy for patients with type 2 diabetes. It also restores the body’s response to insulin, decreases the amount of blood sugar produced by the liver, and delays the absorption of sugar by the stomach or intestines. It helps to lower the increased blood glucose level in type 2 diabetes patients.

Glimipride helps to lower blood sugar by causing the pancreas to produce insulin (a natural substance that is needed to break down sugar in the body) and helping the body use insulin efficiently. This medication will only help lower blood sugar in people whose bodies produce insulin naturally. It helps in controlling high blood sugar and helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Medical Benefits of Metformin and Glimipride Tablets

• Metformin has off-label usage in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) where it helps normalize the menstruation cycle by restoring the body’s hormonal balance, lowering blood sugar levels, and stimulating ovulation.
• Metformin does not cause a sudden lowering of the blood glucose level or cause significant hypoglycaemia. Unlike other anti-diabetic therapies like sulfonylureas or insulin, it does not cause weight gain but may cause modest weight loss.
• It also helps to prevent serious complications of diabetes such as kidney damage (Diabetic Nephropathy), blindness (Diabetic Retinopathy), loss of sensation in your hands and feet (Diabetic Neuropathy) or even loss of the foot. It also helps to reduce your chance of having a heart attack or stroke.
• Glimipride helps in controlling high blood sugar and helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems

Directions for Use

• Metformin should be taken with meals to help reduce stomach or bowel side effects or as directed by your doctor.
• Your doctor will advise you how often you take your tablets on the basis of your medical condition.
• Swallow Metformin and Glimipride Tablets with a full glass of water.
• Do not crush, chew or break it.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place
• Keep it away from sunlight.
• Keep out of the reach of children.

Precautions

• This tablet is not recommended if you are breastfeeding or if you are planning to breastfeed your baby.
• Metformin and Glimipride Tablets are not recommended for children below 10 years of age. For children above 10 years, the dose is to be adjusted and recommended by a child specialist only.
• It is to be taken with caution, especially if you have a history of Kidney or liver diseases/conditions.
• It is advisable not to consume alcohol along with metformin to avoid unpleasant side effects like lactic acidosis.

Side effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
• Dark urine

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can Metformin cause stomach upset?

Yes, it can cause a minor upset of the stomach. However, do not stop taking it. Discuss with your doctor in case of severe stomach upset.

How does glimepiride work in your body?

Glimepiride tells your pancreas to increase the amount of insulin it produces in your body. Insulin works to lower your blood sugar.

What happens if you take glimepiride and skip your meal?

If you skip your largest meal of the day when you normally take your medication, then it is advised you also skip glimepiride. This is because food normally works to raise your blood sugar levels so if you have an empty stomach and take it, your blood sugar can become too low. Talk to your provider or pharmacist if you are unsure about when to take or skip your medications.

Does metformin cause weight loss?

Yes, initial treatment with this tablet is known to cause weight loss. However, if you experience excessive weight loss while on treatment with it, inform your doctor without any delay. There is a possibility that your dosage needs to be adjusted.