Glyphage Tablet 500mg (Metformin) x100

Glyphage Tablet 500mg contains Metformin Hydrochloride, an oral antidiabetic medication from the biguanide class. This first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes helps control blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose production by the liver.

Uses

Glyphage 500mg is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. It’s prescribed alongside diet and exercise to improve glycemic control. It may also be used for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), insulin resistance, and prediabetes when lifestyle modifications alone prove insufficient.

Benefits

• Effectively lowers blood glucose levels
• Reduces insulin resistance and improves insulin sensitivity
• Decreases hepatic glucose production
• Associated with modest weight loss or weight neutrality
• Does not typically cause hypoglycemia when used alone
• May improve lipid profiles
• Potentially reduces cardiovascular risks
• Cost-effective diabetes management
• Well-established safety profile with decades of clinical use

How It Works

Metformin in Glyphage Tablet works by decreasing glucose production in the liver, reducing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. Unlike insulin secretagogues, it does not stimulate insulin release, minimizing hypoglycemia risk.

Dosage

Take with meals to minimize gastrointestinal effects. Dosage should be gradually increased based on glucose response and tolerability.

Duration of Action

Glyphage begins working within hours of administration. Peak plasma concentrations occur within 2-3 hours. The glucose-lowering effects develop gradually over 1-2 weeks. Full therapeutic benefits may take 4-6 weeks to become apparent with consistent use.

Side Effects

Common side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and metallic taste. These typically improve with continued use. Serious but rare side effects include lactic acidosis, particularly in patients with kidney dysfunction, liver disease, or acute conditions causing tissue hypoxia.

Warning

Lactic acidosis is a rare but serious complication of metformin therapy. Symptoms include malaise, muscle pain, respiratory distress, and abdominal discomfort. Glyphage should be temporarily discontinued before radiological studies using iodinated contrast and before surgical procedures. Not suitable for patients with severe kidney disease.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Glyphage may be used during pregnancy when benefits outweigh risks, particularly in women with gestational diabetes or pre-existing type 2 diabetes. Limited data suggests it is safe during breastfeeding, with minimal amounts excreted in breast milk. Consult healthcare provider for individualized guidance.

Interaction

• May interact with cimetidine, increasing metformin concentration
• Possible reduced effectiveness with corticosteroids and other hyperglycemic drugs
• Alcohol may increase risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia
• May affect vitamin B12 absorption with long-term use
• Certain contrast agents increase risk of acute kidney injury

Precaution

Renal function should be assessed before starting therapy and periodically thereafter. Elderly patients require careful monitoring due to age-related decline in kidney function. Temporarily discontinue during acute illness, severe infection, trauma, or surgery. Monitor for vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use.

Important Information

Glyphage alone does not cause hypoglycemia but can when combined with other glucose-lowering medications. Regular monitoring of blood glucose and HbA1c is essential. This medication works best as part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan including diet, exercise, and regular medical follow-up. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.