Glimet DS Tablet

Glimet is a combination of two medicines: Glipizide and Metformin. This medicine is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). It improves the blood glucose levels in adults when taken along with proper diet and regular exercise. Glipizide lowers the blood glucose levels by increasing the release of insulin from the pancreas. Metformin works by lowering the glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity. This combination is not indicated for the treatment of type 1 DM.

The use of Glimet should be avoided in patients with known allergy to any of the components or excipients of this medicine. It should also be avoided in patients with moderate to severe kidney disease and in patients with underlying metabolic acidosis including diabetic ketoacidosis.

Yes, the use of Glimet can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level). Symptoms of hypoglycemia include nausea, headache, irritability, hunger, sweating, dizziness, fast heart rate and feeling anxious or shaky. It happens more often if you miss or delay your food, drink alcohol, over-exercise or take other antidiabetic medicine along with it. So, regular monitoring of the blood sugar level is important. Always carry some glucose tablets, honey or fruit juice with you.

The use of Glimet is associated with common side effects like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level), altered taste, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache and upper respiratory tract infection. Its use can also lead to serious but rare side effects like lactic acidosis. On long-term use, it can also lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency.

No, it is not safe to take Glimet along with alcohol, as it may lower your low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) and can increase the chances of lactic acidosis.

Yes, the use of Glimet can lead to lactic acidosis. It is a medical emergency which is caused by increased levels of lactic acid in the blood. It is also known as MALA (Metformin associated lactic acidosis). It is a rare side effect associated with the use of metformin and therefore, it is avoided in patients with underlying kidney disease, old age patients or who take large amounts of alcohol. Symptoms of lactic acidosis may include muscle pain or weakness, dizziness, tiredness, feeling of cold in arms and legs, difficulty in breathing, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or slow heart rate. If you have these symptoms, stop taking Glimet and immediately consult your doctor.

Yes, the use of Glimet can cause Vitamin B12 deficiency on long-term use. It interferes with absorption of Vitamin B12 in the stomach. If untreated, it may cause anemia and nerve problems and the patient can feel a tingling sensation and numbness in the hands and feet, weakness, urinary problems, change in mental status and difficulty in maintaining balance (ataxia). To avoid such problems, some researchers suggest an intake of Vitamin B12 from outside sources at least once every year.

Keep this medicine in the container or the pack it came in, tightly closed. Store it according to the instructions mentioned on the pack or label. Dispose of the unused medicine. Make sure it is not consumed by pets, children and other people.