What is Metaglip?
Metaglip is an oral combination of two diabetes medications that helps control blood glucose levels. Metaglip can be used in conjunction with exercise and diet to help control blood sugar levels in adults who have type 2 diabetes. Metaglip does not treat type 1 diabetes. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Metaglip.
Side effects of Metaglip
If you experience symptoms of allergy such as difficulty breathing, hives or swelling of lips, face, throat or tongue then seek medical advice immediately.
Side effects from taking this medicine may be severe and should be monitored closely - particularly if any are experienced by you such as:
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Heart issues: swelling, rapid weight gain and shortness of breath.
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Extreme hypoglycemia manifests with extreme weakness, blurred vision, sweating, trouble speaking, tremors, stomach pain, confusion and seizures;
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Lactic acidosis: unusual muscular pain, difficulty breathing, nausea, abdominal pain, an irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or a feeling of weakness or fatigue.
Metaglip side effects may include:
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Upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea;
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Headache;
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Cold symptoms like stuffy noses, sneezing, and sore throats.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice regarding side effects, call your physician. Alternatively, report them by calling the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Metaglip should be avoided if you suffer from severe kidney problems or diabetes ketoacidosis. Consult your doctor to get treatment. You may have to stop using Metaglip temporarily if you are going to undergo an x-ray, CT scan, or any other type of test that uses a dye injected directly into your veins. You could develop lactic acidosis. It can lead to the accumulation of toxic lactic acids in your blood. If you experience unusual pain in your muscles, difficulty breathing, nausea, dizziness, or a feeling of coldness or fatigue, call a doctor.
Before you take this drug
Metaglip should not be used if:
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Severe kidney disease
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Metabolic acidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis (call your doctor for treatment).
You may have to stop using Metaglip temporarily if you are going to undergo an x-ray, CT scan, or any other type of test that uses a dye injected directly into your veins.
If you've ever:
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Kidney disease
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Congestive heart failure is a serious condition, particularly if you are taking digoxin or furosemide.
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G6PD deficiency is a genetic enzyme deficiency.
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Liver Disease
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Heart Disease
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If you are over 80 and your kidney function has not been checked recently,
Lactic acidosis, or the buildup of toxic lactic acids in your bloodstream, is a risk for anyone and may increase with chronic alcoholism or severe infections. Consult your physician to ascertain your level of risk. If you are pregnant, or become pregnant, follow your physician's advice regarding Metaglip's use. Being aware of their blood glucose levels is vitally important for both mother and baby - you may even have to temporarily stop using Metaglip just prior to giving birth. Metformin may stimulate ovulation and lead to unintended pregnancies in women who aren't menopausal yet; consult your physician. While taking this medication, breastfeeding should be avoided.
How to take Metaglip?
Follow all instructions or guides included with your medication exactly, as outlined by your physician. Your dose may change occasionally so it is important that you take it as prescribed. Metaglip can be taken with food. If you have diarrhea or vomiting and a high fever, call your doctor. This can cause severe dehydration, which is dangerous when you take Metaglip. Metaglip should be taken with plenty of fluids. If you have low sugar, then it is possible that you feel irritable or confused. You might also be shaky, hungry, dizzy, and irritable. If you want to treat hypoglycemia quickly, consume or drink something that will provide sugar quickly (such as fruit juice, candy, crackers, or raisins). If you suffer from severe hypoglycemia, your physician might suggest an injection kit. Make sure that members of your close circle (family and/or friends) understand how to administer this injection correctly.Monitor symptoms of hyperglycemia, such as increased thirst or urine production.
Stress, illness, surgeries, alcohol consumption and skipping meals can all impact blood sugar levels and cause adjustments in medication or dose schedules. Be sure to speak to your physician first if making any modifications to either. Metaglip may be part of an overall treatment plan that includes diet, weight management, testing for blood sugar, and special medical attention. You should follow your doctor’s advice. Keep away from heat and moisture. Store at room temperature. You may be prescribed extra vitamin B12 by your doctor if you're taking Metaglip. Only take the prescribed amount of Vitamin B12.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You should take your medication as soon as possible, but only when you're about to have a meal. Skip the dose if you miss a meal and wait for your next meal.
What happens if I overdose?
Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. Overdosage may result in severe hypoglycemia or lactic acidosis.
What should be avoided?
Alcohol lowers blood sugar and may increase your risk of lactic acidosis. Alcohol lowers your blood sugar levels and can increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis. Avoid taking within 4 hours of Metaglip.
Interaction with other drug
Metaglip can be affected by many drugs, reducing its effectiveness or increasing the risk of developing lactic acidosis. These include prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products. This list does not include all interactions.Inform your physician of all medications you are currently taking and any new ones.
