Glucovance Tablets 5/500Mg (1 Strip = 15 Tablets)

Requires Prescription (YES/NO)

Yes

Generics

Glibenclamide , Metformin HCl

Used For

Diabetes

How it works

Metformin Hydrochloride and Glibenclamide, two antihyperglycemic agents with complementary mechanisms of action, to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. Metformin Hydrochloride is an antihyperglycemic agent that improves glucose tolerance in patients with type 2 diabetes, lowering both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Glibenclamide appears to lower blood glucose acutely by stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas, an effect dependent upon functioning beta cells in the pancreatic islets.

Dosage

Glibenclamide , Metformin HCl

Side Effects

Diarrhoea, Headache, Nausea / Vomiting, Abdominal pain and Dizziness.

Drug Interactions

When the drugs like the thiazides and other diuretics, corticosteroids, phenothiazines, thyroid products, estrogens, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, nicotinic acid, sympathomimetics, calcium channel blocking drugs, and isoniazid are administered to a patient receiving this medicine , the patient should be closely observed for loss of blood glucose control. When such drugs are withdrawn from a patient receiving this medicine, the patient should be observed closely for hypoglycemia. Metformin HCl is negligibly bound to plasma proteins and is, therefore, less likely to interact with highly protein-bound drugs such as salicylates, sulfonamides, chloramphenicol, and probenecid as compared to sulfonylureas, which are extensively bound to serum proteins.

Indication

It is indicated as initial therapy, as an adjunct to diet and exercise, to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes whose hyperglycemia cannot be satisfactorily managed with diet and exercise alone. It is indicated as second-line therapy when diet, exercise, and initial treatment with a sulfonylurea or Metformin do not result in adequate glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

When not to Use

Metformin HCl and Glibenclamide is contraindicated in patients with: Renal disease or renal dysfunction (e.g., as suggested by serum creatinine levels =1.5 mg/dL [males], =1.4 mg/dL [females], or abnormal creatinine clearance) which may also result from conditions such as cardiovascular collapse (shock), acute myocardial infarction, and septicemia. Congestive heart failure requiring pharmacologic treatment. Known hypersensitivity to Metformin Hydrochloride or Glibenclamide. Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma. Diabetic ketoacidosis should be treated with insulin.

Precaution

As with other hypoglycemic agent, Metformin HCl and Glibenclamide is also capable of producing hypoglycemia or hypoglycemic symptoms, therefore, proper patient selection, dosing, and instructions are important to avoid potential hypoglycemic episodes.

Warning 1

Renal or hepatic insufficiency may cause elevated drug levels of both Metformin Hydrochloride and Glibenclamide and the hepatic insufficiency may also diminish gluconeogenic capacity, both of which increase the risk of hypoglycemic reactions.

Warning 2

Elderly, debilitated, or malnourished patients and those with adrenal or pituitary insufficiency or alcohol intoxication are particularly susceptible to hypoglycemic effects. Hypoglycemia may be difficult to recognize in the elderly, and in people who are taking betaadrenergic blocking drug.

Warning 3

Safety and effectivenes in pediatric patients have not been established.

Pregnancy category

Always consult your physician before using any medicine.

Storage (YES/NO)

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from direct light and heat.