GLYCIPHAGE PG1 10S

About

This medication is a combination of Metformin and Pioglitazone, two oral antidiabetic agents used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metformin, a biguanide, primarily reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues. Pioglitazone, a thiazolidinedione (TZD), enhances insulin sensitivity in muscle, adipose tissue, and the liver by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma).

This dual action effectively addresses insulin resistance, a core defect in type 2 diabetes, leading to improved glycemic control. It is typically prescribed for adults when diet, exercise, and monotherapy with either metformin or pioglitazone alone do not achieve adequate blood sugar control, offering a comprehensive approach to diabetes management.

Uses

• Management of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
• Improvement of insulin sensitivity.
• Reduction of blood glucose levels.
• Adjunct to diet and exercise.

Directions For Use

Take orally once daily with or without food, as directed by your physician. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Benefits

• Effectively lowers blood glucose.
• Targets insulin resistance directly.
• Provides sustained glycemic control.
• May improve lipid profiles.
• Convenient combination therapy.
• Reduces HbA1c levels.

Side Effects

• Weight gain
• Fluid retention/edema
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Headache
• Sinusitis
• Muscle pain
• Hypoglycemia (less common than sulfonylureas)
• Bladder cancer (rare, long-term use)
• Bone fractures (especially in women)
• Macular edema (rare)
• Lactic acidosis (rare, due to metformin)
• Heart failure exacerbation

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid excessive alcohol intake as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis (due to metformin) and may affect blood sugar control.
• Pregnancy - Not recommended. Pioglitazone is generally contraindicated in pregnancy, and while metformin may be used, combination therapy is usually avoided.
• Breastfeeding - Not recommended. Pioglitazone is not advised during breastfeeding, and while metformin is generally safe, the combination should be avoided.
• Liver - Contraindicated in active liver disease or elevated liver enzymes. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is required before and during treatment.
• Kidney - Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²). Dose adjustments for metformin are crucial for moderate impairment. Pioglitazone does not require renal adjustment.
• Lung - Use with caution in patients with severe lung conditions, especially those leading to hypoxia, as this can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.

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