Glipizide-Metformin 5mg/500mg Tabs

Manufacturer ZYDUS PHARMACEUTICALS (USA) Active Ingredient Glipizide and Metformin(GLIP i zide & met FOR min) Pronunciation GLIP-i-zide & met-FOR-min
WARNING: Rarely, metformin may cause too much lactic acid in the blood (lactic acidosis). The risk is higher in people who have kidney problems, liver problems, heart failure, use alcohol, or take certain other drugs, including topiramate. The risk is also higher in people who are 65 or older and in people who are having surgery, an exam or test with contrast, or other procedures. If lactic acidosis happens, it can lead to other health problems and can be deadly. Kidney tests may be done while taking this drug.Do not take this drug if you have a very bad infection, low oxygen, or a lot of fluid loss (dehydration).Call your doctor right away if you have signs of too much lactic acid in the blood (lactic acidosis) like confusion; fast breathing; fast or slow heartbeat; a heartbeat that does not feel normal; very bad stomach pain, upset stomach, or throwing up; feeling very sleepy; shortness of breath; feeling very tired or weak; very bad dizziness; feeling cold; or muscle pain or cramps. @ COMMON USES: It is used to lower blood sugar in patients with high blood sugar (diabetes).
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Drug Class
Antidiabetic agent
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Pharmacologic Class
Sulfonylurea and Biguanide combination
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Pregnancy Category
Category C
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FDA Approved
Aug 2000
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Glipizide-Metformin is a medication used to help manage type 2 diabetes. It combines two different medicines: Glipizide helps your body make more insulin, and Metformin helps your body use insulin better and reduces the amount of sugar your liver makes. Together, they help lower your blood sugar levels.
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How to Use This Medicine

Taking Your Medication Correctly

To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided to you and adhere to the instructions. Take your medication with meals as directed. It's also essential to follow the diet and exercise plan recommended by your doctor. Continue taking your medication as prescribed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you start feeling well.

Storing and Disposing of Your Medication

Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, avoiding the bathroom. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. If you're unsure about the best way to dispose of your medication, consult your pharmacist. You may also want to check if there are drug take-back programs available in your area.

What to Do If You Miss a Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, with a meal. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Avoid taking two doses at the same time or taking extra doses.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Follow a balanced diet as recommended by your doctor or dietitian.
  • Engage in regular physical activity (e.g., 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week).
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly as instructed by your healthcare provider.
  • Limit or avoid alcohol consumption, as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar and a serious side effect called lactic acidosis.

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Initial: Glipizide 2.5 mg/Metformin 250 mg once daily with a meal. Titrate gradually based on efficacy and tolerability. Max: Glipizide 20 mg/Metformin 2000 mg daily.
Dose Range: 2.5 - 2000 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

type2Diabetes: Initial: 2.5 mg Glipizide/250 mg Metformin once daily with a meal. May increase by 2.5 mg Glipizide/250 mg Metformin per day every 1-2 weeks up to a maximum of 20 mg Glipizide/2000 mg Metformin daily, divided with meals.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Not established
Child: Not established
Adolescent: Not established
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: eGFR 60-89 mL/min/1.73 m2: No dose adjustment for Glipizide. Metformin: Monitor renal function at least annually. No dose adjustment typically needed.
Moderate: eGFR 45-59 mL/min/1.73 m2: Glipizide: Use with caution, consider lower starting dose and careful titration. Metformin: Max dose 1000 mg/day. Monitor eGFR every 3-6 months. eGFR 30-44 mL/min/1.73 m2: Metformin: Max dose 1000 mg/day. Monitor eGFR every 3 months. Avoid initiation if eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Severe: eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2: Contraindicated (due to Metformin component).
Dialysis: Contraindicated (due to Metformin component).

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: Glipizide: Use with caution, consider lower starting dose and careful titration. Metformin: Not recommended due to increased risk of lactic acidosis.
Moderate: Contraindicated (due to Metformin component).
Severe: Contraindicated (due to Metformin component).

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Glipizide: A sulfonylurea that stimulates insulin release from pancreatic beta cells, requiring functioning beta cells. Metformin: A biguanide that decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Glipizide: ~100%; Metformin: 50-60%
Tmax: Glipizide: 1-2 hours; Metformin: 2-3 hours
FoodEffect: Glipizide: Food delays absorption; Metformin: Food decreases absorption and delays Tmax.

Distribution:

Vd: Glipizide: ~10 L; Metformin: 654 L
ProteinBinding: Glipizide: >98%; Metformin: Negligible
CnssPenetration: Glipizide: Limited; Metformin: Limited

Elimination:

HalfLife: Glipizide: 2-4 hours; Metformin: 6.2 hours (plasma), 17.6 hours (blood)
Clearance: Not available
ExcretionRoute: Glipizide: Urine (80%), Feces (10%); Metformin: Renal (primarily unchanged)
Unchanged: Glipizide: <10%; Metformin: ~90%
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Glipizide: ~30 minutes; Metformin: Days to weeks for full glucose-lowering effect
PeakEffect: Glipizide: 1-2 hours; Metformin: Weeks
DurationOfAction: Glipizide: 10-24 hours; Metformin: Up to 24 hours

Safety & Warnings

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BLACK BOX WARNING

Postmarketing cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis have resulted in death, hypothermia, hypotension, and resistant bradyarrhythmias. The onset of metformin-associated lactic acidosis is often subtle, accompanied only by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, myalgias, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal distress. Metformin-associated lactic acidosis was characterized by elevated blood lactate levels (>5 mmol/L), anion gap acidosis (without evidence of ketonuria or ketonemia), and an increased lactate/pyruvate ratio; metformin plasma levels were generally >5 mcg/mL. If acidosis is suspected, discontinue Glipizide-Metformin and institute general supportive measures in a hospital setting. Prompt hemodialysis is recommended. Risk factors include renal impairment, concomitant use of certain drugs (e.g., carbonic anhydrase inhibitors), age 65 years or greater, radiological studies with contrast, surgery and other procedures, hypoxic states (e.g., acute congestive heart failure), excessive alcohol intake, and hepatic impairment.
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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Feeling extremely tired or weak
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which may be more likely when taking this medication with other diabetes drugs. Symptoms may include:
+ Dizziness
+ Headache
+ Feeling sleepy or weak
+ Shaking
+ Fast heartbeat
+ Confusion
+ Hunger
+ Sweating
If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor right away and follow their instructions for managing low blood sugar, which may include taking glucose tablets, liquid glucose, or some fruit juices.

Stomach Problems

It's common to experience stomach issues like upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea when starting this medication. However, if you develop stomach problems later during treatment, contact your doctor immediately, as this could be a sign of a serious condition called lactic acidosis.

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects, although many people may not experience any or may only have mild symptoms. If you're bothered by any of the following side effects or if they don't go away, contact your doctor or seek medical help:

Dizziness or headache
Diarrhea, upset stomach, or vomiting
Stomach pain
Muscle pain
Signs of a common cold

This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): sweating, shaking, dizziness, confusion, hunger, irritability, fast heartbeat. Carry a source of fast-acting sugar (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice) to treat low blood sugar.
  • Symptoms of lactic acidosis (a serious and rare side effect): unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, unusual tiredness, stomach pain, dizziness, lightheadedness, slow or irregular heartbeat, feeling cold. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
  • Symptoms of allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including the symptoms that occurred.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ Acidic blood problems
+ Kidney disease
+ Liver disease
+ Type 1 diabetes
Recent medical events, such as a heart attack or stroke
Any difficulties with eating or drinking, including situations where you may be required to fast before a procedure or surgery
Upcoming or recent exams or tests that involve contrast agents (within the past 48 hours)

Additionally, if you:

Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Do not take this medication if you are pregnant.
Are breast-feeding or plan to breast-feed

This medication can interact with other drugs and health conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of:

All prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking
Natural products and vitamins you are using
Any health problems you have

Your doctor will help you determine whether it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
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Precautions & Cautions

Important Warnings and Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.

Before consuming alcohol, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential risks or interactions.

Until you understand how this medication affects you, avoid driving and other activities that require alertness. Additionally, do not drive if you have experienced low blood sugar, as this can increase your risk of being involved in an accident.

If you have a deficiency in the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), use caution when taking this medication, as it may increase your risk of developing anemia. Individuals of African, South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean descent are more likely to have low G6PD levels.

Monitor your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor. Regular blood tests will also be necessary to assess your condition; be sure to follow your doctor's instructions and discuss any concerns or questions you may have.

Long-term treatment with metformin may lead to a decrease in vitamin B-12 levels. If you have a history of low vitamin B-12 levels, consult with your doctor to discuss potential implications.

If you are taking colesevelam, take it at least 4 hours after taking this medication to minimize potential interactions.

There is a potential increased risk of death from heart disease associated with this medication; discuss this with your doctor to understand the benefits and risks.

During periods of stress, such as fever, infection, injury, or surgery, your blood sugar levels may be more challenging to control. Changes in physical activity, exercise, or diet can also affect your blood sugar levels.

If you experience diarrhea or vomiting, contact your doctor promptly, as you may need to increase your fluid intake to prevent dehydration.

In hot weather or during physical activity, be cautious and drink plenty of fluids to avoid fluid loss.

If you have been taking this medication for an extended period or at high doses, you may develop tolerance, reducing its effectiveness. If you notice a decrease in the medication's effectiveness, contact your doctor; do not take more than the prescribed dose.

If you are 65 or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Severe hypoglycemia (Glipizide component): profound weakness, confusion, seizures, coma.
  • Lactic acidosis (Metformin component): severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, muscle pain, extreme tiredness, low blood pressure, hypothermia.

What to Do:

In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Call 911 or Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Treatment for hypoglycemia may involve oral glucose or intravenous dextrose. Treatment for lactic acidosis involves supportive care and prompt hemodialysis to remove metformin.

Drug Interactions

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Contraindicated Interactions

  • Iodinated contrast media (temporarily discontinue metformin)
  • Alcohol (excessive acute or chronic intake due to lactic acidosis risk)
  • Miconazole (oral)
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Major Interactions

  • Cimetidine (increases metformin levels)
  • Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., topiramate, zonisamide, acetazolamide, dichlorphenamide - increased risk of lactic acidosis)
  • Drugs that affect renal function (e.g., NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics - increased risk of metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis)
  • Drugs that cause hyperglycemia (e.g., thiazides, corticosteroids, phenothiazines, thyroid products, estrogens, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, nicotinic acid, sympathomimetics, calcium channel blockers, isoniazid)
  • Drugs that cause hypoglycemia (e.g., beta-blockers, fluconazole, NSAIDs, salicylates, sulfonamides, probenecid, MAOIs, other antidiabetic agents)
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Moderate Interactions

  • Furosemide (increases metformin plasma concentration)
  • Nifedipine (increases metformin plasma concentration)
  • Digoxin (may increase glipizide levels)
  • Warfarin (may alter anticoagulant effect)
  • CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole, amiodarone - may increase glipizide levels)
  • CYP2C9 inducers (e.g., rifampin - may decrease glipizide levels)
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Minor Interactions

  • Not available

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Renal function (eGFR)

Rationale: To assess kidney function and determine appropriate metformin dosing, as metformin is renally excreted and contraindicated in severe renal impairment.

Timing: Prior to initiation

HbA1c

Rationale: To establish baseline glycemic control and guide initial therapy.

Timing: Prior to initiation

Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG)

Rationale: To establish baseline glycemic control.

Timing: Prior to initiation

Liver function tests (LFTs)

Rationale: To assess liver function, as metformin is contraindicated in hepatic impairment and glipizide is metabolized by the liver.

Timing: Prior to initiation

Vitamin B12 levels

Rationale: Metformin can cause vitamin B12 deficiency.

Timing: Prior to initiation

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Routine Monitoring

HbA1c

Frequency: Every 3-6 months

Target: <7% (individualized)

Action Threshold: If above target, consider dose adjustment or additional therapy.

Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG)

Frequency: Daily (patient self-monitoring)

Target: 80-130 mg/dL (individualized)

Action Threshold: Persistent readings outside target range require dose adjustment or medical evaluation.

Renal function (eGFR)

Frequency: At least annually; every 3-6 months if eGFR 30-59 mL/min/1.73 m2; more frequently in elderly or those at risk of renal impairment.

Target: >60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (for full metformin dose)

Action Threshold: If eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m2, reassess metformin dose; if below 30 mL/min/1.73 m2, discontinue.

Vitamin B12 levels

Frequency: Periodically (e.g., every 1-2 years) or if megaloblastic anemia is suspected.

Target: Normal range

Action Threshold: If low, consider supplementation.

Signs/symptoms of hypoglycemia

Frequency: Ongoing patient education and self-monitoring

Target: N/A

Action Threshold: Treat immediately with fast-acting glucose; adjust medication if frequent.

Signs/symptoms of lactic acidosis

Frequency: Ongoing patient education and monitoring

Target: N/A

Action Threshold: Seek immediate medical attention if suspected.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Symptoms of hypoglycemia (e.g., sweating, tremor, dizziness, confusion, hunger, irritability)
  • Symptoms of lactic acidosis (e.g., malaise, myalgia, respiratory distress, somnolence, abdominal distress, unusual fatigue)
  • Gastrointestinal side effects (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort)
  • Signs of allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Category C. Not recommended for use during pregnancy. Insulin is generally preferred for glycemic control in pregnant women with diabetes.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Potential for fetal harm not ruled out. Poorly controlled diabetes in early pregnancy increases risk of congenital malformations.
Second Trimester: Poorly controlled diabetes increases risk of fetal macrosomia and other complications.
Third Trimester: Poorly controlled diabetes increases risk of fetal macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and other complications. Metformin crosses the placenta.
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Lactation

Both glipizide and metformin are excreted into breast milk. Metformin is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding at typical doses, but glipizide may pose a risk of hypoglycemia in the infant. Use with caution; monitor breastfed infants for signs of hypoglycemia.

Infant Risk: Low to moderate risk. Monitor for hypoglycemia in the infant.
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Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients. Not recommended for use in children.

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Geriatric Use

Use with caution due to increased risk of hypoglycemia (glipizide) and lactic acidosis/renal impairment (metformin). Start with lower doses and titrate slowly. Closely monitor renal function.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Always take Glipizide-Metformin with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects and minimize the risk of hypoglycemia.
  • Patients should be educated on the symptoms of hypoglycemia and how to treat it.
  • Metformin should be temporarily discontinued before any radiological procedure involving iodinated contrast media and for any surgical procedure requiring restricted food and fluid intake.
  • Educate patients on the rare but serious risk of lactic acidosis, especially symptoms like unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, or extreme tiredness, and to seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
  • This medication is for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus only and is not indicated for Type 1 Diabetes or Diabetic Ketoacidosis.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Other oral antidiabetic agents (e.g., DPP-4 inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, TZDs, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, meglitinides)
  • Insulin therapy
  • Lifestyle modifications alone (diet, exercise)
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: Varies widely, typically low per 30 tablets
Generic Available: Yes
Insurance Coverage: Tier 1 or 2 (preferred generic)
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.