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GENERIC NAME: GLIPIZIDE/METFORMIN - ORAL (GLIP-eh-zide/met-FOR-min)

BRAND NAME(S): Metaglip

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

WARNING: The metformin in this combination medication can rarely cause a condition called lactic acidosis, which can be fatal. If you develop any of the following symptoms of lactic acidosis, stop this medication and seek immediate medical attention: unusual tiredness (fatigue) or severe drowsiness, low body temperature, unexplained muscle pain, breathing trouble or rapid breathing, unusually slow or irregular heartbeat. Lactic acidosis is more likely to occur in patients who have: serious infection, surgery, kidney or liver disease, conditions that may cause a low oxygen blood level or poor circulation (e.g., severe congestive heart failure, recent heart attack or stroke), excessive alcohol use, a lack of body fluids (dehydration), x-ray or scanning procedures that require an injectable iodinated contrast drug. The elderly are also at a higher risk, especially if you are over 80 years of age and have not had kidney and liver tests.

USES: This combination medication is used along with a diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in diabetic patients. It works by releasing more of the insulin that your body naturally produces into your bloodstream and by helping your body use the insulin more effectively. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease, blindness and circulation problems, as well as sexual function problems (impotence).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually once or twice daily with a meal, or as directed by your doctor. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time(s) each day. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Read the patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions regarding the information, ask your doctor or pharmacist.




Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

 

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.


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glipizide/metformin-oral, Metaglip

How is diabetes treated?

The major goal in treating diabetes is to minimize any elevation of blood sugar (glucose) without causing abnormally low levels of blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes is treated with insulin, exercise, and a diabetic diet. Type 2 diabetes is treated first with weight reduction, a diabetic diet, and exercise. When these measures fail to control the elevated blood sugars, oral medications are used. If oral medications are still insufficient, treatment with insulin is considered.

Adherence to a diabetic diet is an important aspect of controlling elevated blood sugar in patients with diabetes. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has provided guidelines for a diabetic diet. The ADA diet is a balanced, nutritious diet that is low in fat, cholesterol, and simple sugars. The total daily calories are evenly divided into three meals. In the past two years, the ADA has lifted the absolute ban on simple sugars. Small amounts of si...

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