Metaglip

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Metaglip.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, high blood pressure, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), muscle pain, upper respiratory infection

Why should Metaglip not be prescribed?

Metaglip is processed primarily by the kidneys, and can build up to excessive levels in the body if the kidneys aren't working properly. It should be avoided if you have kidney disease or your kidney function has been impaired by a condition such as shock, blood poisoning, or a heart attack.

You should not use Metaglip if you need to take medicine for congestive heart failure.

Do not take Metaglip if you have ever had an allergic reaction to glipizide or metformin.

Do not take Metaglip if you have metabolic or diabetic ketoacidosis (a life-threatening medical emergency caused by insufficient insulin and marked by excessive thirst, nausea, fatigue, pain below the breastbone, and fruity breath).

Special warnings about Metaglip

Some studies suggest that the glipizide component of Metaglip may lead to more heart problems than treatment with diet alone, or diet plus insulin. In a long-term trial of a similar drug, researchers noted an increase in heart-related deaths (though the overall mortality rate remained unchanged). If you have a heart condition or you're at risk for heart disease, you should discuss this potential danger with your doctor.

Because Metaglip can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), it's very important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Low blood sugar is more likely to happen if you're older, weak, or undernourished, or if you have kidney, liver, adrenal, or pituitary gland problems. Your risk also increases if you miss meals or fail to eat after doing strenuous exercise. Combining Metaglip with other diabetes medications can also cause blood sugar to drop. Symptoms of a mild case include cold sweats, dizziness, shakiness, a light-headed feeling, and hunger. Check with your doctor immediately if you notice any of these warning signs, since severe low blood sugar can occasionally lead to seizures or coma.