Glimepiride + Metformin

Dosage Forms Available

• Glimepiride + Metformin is available in oral tablet form and should be taken as prescribed by a doctor. It is usually taken with meals to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This combination is not recommended for children under 18 years.

Contraindications

• Glimepiride + Metformin is contraindicated in patients who have a history of allergy to glimepiride or metformin, or any of its ingredients.
• This medicine should not be used in patients with severe kidney disease (eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m²), metabolic acidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis.
• It should not be used to treat type 1 diabetes.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Some medicines may affect the effectiveness of Glimepiride + Metformin or increase the risk of side effects. Beta-blockers, such as atenolol and propranolol, may mask some symptoms of hypoglycaemia. Corticosteroids, such as prednisolone, and some diuretics, such as furosemide, may worsen blood glucose control. Some antibiotics and other medicines may also affect blood glucose when taken with glimepiride. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking any other medicine with this combination.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose can cause severe hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), leading to shaking, confusion, sweating, a fast heartbeat, or unconsciousness. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

• If hypoglycemia occurs, consume a quick sugar source such as fruit juice, glucose tablets, or candy. Follow it with a balanced meal to maintain stable blood sugar levels. For nausea and stomach pain, taking the medication with food can help reduce discomfort. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor for an adjustment in dosage or alternative treatment options.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This combination may cause dizziness or drowsiness, especially if blood sugar drops too low. Until you know how this medication affects you, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Glimepiride should be used during pregnancy only as advised by a doctor, as it can cross the placenta and may increase the risk of hypoglycaemia in the newborn. In type 2 diabetes, a doctor may recommend insulin to control blood glucose during pregnancy.
• Women who are breastfeeding should consult their doctor before using Glimepiride + Metformin. Breastfed infants of women taking glimepiride should be monitored for symptoms of hypoglycaemia because there is insufficient information about the effects of glimepiride on the breastfed infant.

Caution in Other Conditions

• This medicine should be used with caution in patients with impaired kidney function. Metformin is contraindicated in severe kidney disease, and reduced kidney function may increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Caution is also required in patients with impaired liver function. Patients with cardiovascular conditions, excessive alcohol intake, or other such conditions should consult their doctor before using this combination.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Follow a balanced diet rich in fiber, proteins, and healthy fats to help stabilise blood sugar levels.
• Avoid high-carb and sugary foods, as they can cause blood sugar spikes.
• Monitor blood sugar levels regularly to track the effectiveness of the medication and avoid complications.