Glyciphage Tablet

Glyciphage tablet is an oral anti-diabetic medicine. It is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, a condition where blood sugar level rises above the normal range when it cannot be controlled by diet and exercise alone. Glyciphage lowers the raised blood glucose levels.

It contains metformin as its active ingredient. Take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor, preferably after meals. Glyciphage tablet should not be used by children below 10 years of age.

Abruptly stopping this medicine can result in increased blood sugar levels and complications. Metsmall 500 tablet , Okamet 500 tablet , Glycomet 500 tablet , Metgem 500 tablet and Metfor 500 tablet are some other medicines with metformin. Before using the Glyciphage tablet, inform the doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding and about a detailed medical history.

An individual with uncontrolled diabetes is at increased risk of various health complications such as eye, kidney and nerve problems, heart diseases and stroke.

Dosage

Overdose

An overdose of Glyciphage tablet is associated with lactic acidosis presenting symptoms of drowsiness, rapid breathing, severe vomiting, diarrhoea, and irregular heartbeats. If you experience any of the symptoms or think you have taken too much of this medicine, then contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.

Missed a Dose

If you have missed taking any dose of this medicine, then take it as soon as you remember. If it's time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose of this medicine to compensate for the missed one.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Glyciphage tablet works by decreasing the amount of glucose absorbed from the intestine, thereby lowering the production of glucose or sugar in the liver and increasing the absorption of sugar by the body cells from the blood.

Directions for Use

• Glyciphage tablet should be taken as instructed by your doctor.
• Swallow it as a whole with a glass of water.
• Take it at a fixed time for optimal results.
• Do not consume it more than that prescribed by your doctor.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Glyciphage tablet during pregnancy?

Metformin is known to pass into breast milk, however, the amount is significantly low to cause any side effects. So, this medicine could be taken by breastfeeding mother only if prescribed by her doctor.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Glyciphage tablet while breastfeeding?

Metformin is known to pass into breast milk, however, the amount is significantly low to cause any side effects. So, this medicine could be taken by breastfeeding mother only if prescribed by her doctor.

Driving

Can I drive if I have taken Glyciphage tablet?

Glyciphage tablet does not affect the ability to drive. However, if you experience dizziness or a decrease in blood sugar level after taking this medicine, it is advised to avoid driving.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Glyciphage tablet?

Alcohol intake should be avoided when taking Glyciphage tablet as it increases the risk of lactic acidosis (acid-base imbalance).

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You have lactic acidosis (an acid-base imbalance) characterised by difficulty in breathing, abdominal pain, muscle cramps, and dehydration.
• You have altered kidney function.
• You have heart disease such as heart failure.
• You have a planned surgery.
• You have or are going to administer any contrast medium in the body.
• Glyciphage tablet should not be used by children below ten years of age.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to metformin or any other ingredients of the Glyciphage tablet.
• If you have kidney failure or liver disease.
• If you have several conditions such as dehydration, shock and severe infection.
• If you have an acid-base imbalance in the body or diabetes complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis.
• If you have conditions such as heart failure, lung failure, shock, heart attack.
• If you had unconsciousness due to either extremely high or low blood sugar level.

Side effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Taste disturbance

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Some medicines can affect the way the Glyciphage tablet works or this tablet itself can reduce the effectiveness of other medicines taken at the same time.
• Tell your doctor about all the medicines, supplements or herbals you are currently taking or might take to avoid any possible interactions.
• Especially, if you are taking medicines to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, high/abnormal cholesterol levels, blood thinners, anti-infectives, anti-asthmatics, pain killers, immunomodulatory medicines or medicines for brain-related disorders.

Interactions with food items

Glyciphage tablet reduces the absorption of Vitamin B12 injections. Hence, a regular check-up of serum Vitamin B12 levels and red blood cell parameters is recommended.

Storage and disposal

• Store Glyciphage tablets below 25°C in a cool and dry place.
• Protect it from light and moisture.
• Keep the product out of reach and sight of children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What care is essential before using Glyciphage tablet?

It is crucial to inform your doctor about all the medicines taken for the disorders of the kidneys, heart, liver, lungs, etc., that you may be suffering from before using Glyciphage tablet. The names of the medicines should be provided correctly to the doctor.

Is it necessary to continue exercising after starting Glyciphage tablet?

Glyciphage tablet for diabetes or decreasing the sugar level in one's blood is most effective when it is used in combination with regular exercise and a proper diet.

Will Glyciphage tablet reduce weight?

No, Glyciphage tablet does not reduce weight. It neither increases nor decreases the weight. You should continue to exercise and follow your diet while you are on this medicine.

Can I stop taking Glyciphage tablet once I notice an improvement?

No, you should never stop taking Glyciphage tablet without consulting your doctor. Abruptly stopping the medicine can result in a sudden rise in blood glucose levels and cause further harm to the kidney and other organs.

When should I take Glyciphage?

It is best to take with meals. To get the maximum effect try to take it at the same time daily.

Are Glyciphage and metformin the same?

Yes, Glyciphage contains metformin as its active component.

What are the side effects of Glyciphage?

Nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, loss of appetite and metallic taste in the mouth are a few common side effects of these medicines. Although not everyone gets them. Side effects often improve as your body gets used to the medicine.

Can we take Glyciphage after a meal?

You can take Glyciphage at any time of the day, as advised by the doctor. But it's best to take this medicine with a meal to reduce the side effects.

What is Glyciphage used for?

Glyciphage tablet is used to treat Type 2 diabetes mellitus in overweight patients when dietary changes and exercise fail to achieve desired sugar control.

Is Glyciphage and Glycomet same?

Yes, Both contain the active ingredient metformin, which is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes. They are different brand names for the same molecule produced by different pharmaceutical companies. Consultation with a healthcare professional is required to determine the best medication for your specific needs.