Drug Facts

Type of Drug:

Combination oral antidiabetic agent used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (previously referred to as non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus [NIDDM]).

How the Drug Works:

Glyburide stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreas acutely and lowers glucose chronically by unknown mechanisms. Metformin reduces the amount of sugar produced by the liver and the amount absorbedby the intestines and enhances insulin sensitivity.

Uses:

Used as initial therapy, along with diet and exercise, to treat type 2 diabetes. Also used as second-line therapy when diet, exercise, and initial treatment with a sulfonylurea or metformin used alone is not sufficient.

Precautions:

Latic acidosis: Lactic acidosis is a rare but serious side effect that can occur when taking this medication, particularly if kidney function is impaired. Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience general body discomfort, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, drowsiness, stomach pain, chills, dizziness, lightheadedness, or slow heartbeat.

Diet and exercise: Diet and exercise are the primary managements of type diabetes. Glyburide/metformin is used with, not as a substitute for, diet nd exercise.

Heart problems: This medicine may increase the risk of heart problems compared to treatment with, diet alone or diet plus Insulin.

Pregnancy: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Pregnant women with diabetes should be treated with insulin. Glyburide/metformin is not recommended for control of blood sugar levels in pregnant women.

Breastfeeding: It is not known if glyburide/metformin appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.

Children: Safety and effectiveness in children have not been established.

Elderly: Elderly and debilitated patients are more likely to develop hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels). Use with caution.

Lab Tests: Lab tests will be required to monitor therapy. Tests include blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA )’ and kidney function tests.

Side Effects:

Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many glyburide/metformin users experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency or severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:

Nervous System: Chills; drowsiness; light-headedness; headache; dizziness; shakiness.

Digestive Tract: Diarrhea; nausea; vomiting; stomach pain.

Other: Upper respiratory infection; difficulty breathing; muscle pain; rash; changes in taste perception; low blood pressure; sweating; hunger.

Guidelines for Use:

• Dosage is individualized. Take exactly as prescribed.
• Take with meals.
• Follow the diet and exercise program exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised to do so by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed or it is necessary to establish a new dosage schedule, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
• Contact your doctor immediately if you experience difficulty breathing, muscle pain, general body discomfort, drowsiness, dizziness, light­headedness, slow heartbeat, stomach pain, or chills.
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea generally stop with continued use. If they continue, contact your doctor immediately.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while undergoing therapy with glyburide/ metformin.
• The effectiveness of this medicine may decrease over time. If you feel that it is losing its effectiveness, contact your doctor.
• Lab tests will be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments .
• Store below 77°F. Protect from light.

Tagged under:Antidiabetic Agents, blood sugar levels, debilitated, hypoglycemia, lightheadedness, pancreas, pregnant women type 2 diabetes