Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This diabetes medication is a combination of two drugs, glipizide, and metformin. It is utilized in conjunction with a diet and exercise regimen to manage elevated blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Glipizide, classified as a sulfonylurea, functions by stimulating the release of the body’s natural insulin and reducing the production of sugar by the liver. Metformin, a biguanide, works by decreasing the liver’s sugar production and the absorption of sugar by the stomach and intestines. Both medications collaborate to restore the body’s proper response to the insulin it naturally produces.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day with meals. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition, response to treatment, and any other medications you may be using.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal products. To minimize the risk of side effects, such as upset stomach, your doctor may instruct you to initiate the medication at a low dose and gradually increase it. Adhere closely to your doctor’s instructions.
If you are already taking another diabetes drug, such as chlorpropamide, carefully follow your doctor’s guidance for discontinuing the previous medication and starting this combination product.
Keep in mind that colesevelam can reduce the absorption of glipizide. If you are taking colesevelam, take this medication at least 4 hours before colesevelam.
For optimal results, use this medication consistently at the same time(s) each day. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens, such as experiencing high or low blood sugar levels. It may take up to 2 weeks before the full benefits of this drug become apparent.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea
- headache
- cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- anxiety
- blurred vision
- chills
- cold sweats
- coma
- confusion
- cool pale skin
- depression
- dizziness
- fast heartbeat
- fever
- increased hunger
- nervousness
- nightmares
- seizures
- shakiness
- slurred speech
- unusual tiredness or weakness
Caution
- Before taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to glipizide or metformin, or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions or other complications.
- Provide your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of alcohol use, severe breathing problems, blood problems, electrolyte imbalance (hyponatremia), fertility issues, kidney disease, and certain hormonal conditions (adrenal/pituitary insufficiency, thyroid disease, syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone-SIADH).
- Due to potential extremely low or high blood sugar, you may experience blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. Avoid activities requiring alertness or clear vision, such as driving or using machinery, until you are confident you can perform them safely.
- Limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication, as it can increase the risk of hypoglycemia and lactic acidosis.
- Rarely, alcohol can interact with glipizide, leading to a serious reaction (disulfiram-like reaction) with symptoms such as facial flushing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or stomach pain.
- Stressful conditions, such as fever, infection, injury, or surgery, may make it more challenging to control blood sugar.
- Consult your doctor in such situations, as it may necessitate adjustments to your treatment plan, medications, or blood sugar testing.
- This medication may increase sensitivity to the sun. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. Report any sunburn or skin issues to your doctor promptly.
- Older adults may have a higher risk of lactic acidosis or low blood sugar while using this drug.
- The medication can affect the menstrual cycle, promoting ovulation and increasing the risk of pregnancy. Consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the use of reliable birth control while using this medication.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when necessary. Discuss a plan with your doctor for managing blood sugar during pregnancy, as it may cause or worsen diabetes. If glipizide is used during pregnancy, it may be switched to insulin at least 2 weeks before the expected delivery date due to the risk of low blood sugar in the newborn. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Metaglip is available in the following forms and strengths:
- glipizide and metformin hydrochloride tablet:
- 2.5 / 500 mg
- 5 / 500 mg
FAQ
Does Metaglip lower blood sugar immediately?
Yes, Metaglip will start to lower your blood sugar within 30 minutes after you take your medication. Glipizide, one of the medications in Metaglip, tells your pancreas to release insulin, which will lower your blood sugar.
Does Metaglip harm my kidneys?
No, Metaglip isn’t known to affect your kidney health. However, metformin, a medication in Metaglip, is removed from your body through your kidneys.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/glipizide-metformin/what-is#faqs
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/glipizide-and-metformin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20061984
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/glipizide-metformin#drug-side-effects
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-64323/metaglip-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/metaglip.html
