Glycomet SR is a sustained-release formulation of metformin hydrochloride, designed to provide prolonged and consistent glycemic management in patients with type 2 diabetes. As a first-line oral antidiabetic agent, it works primarily by decreasing hepatic glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues. Its unique extended-release mechanism allows for once-daily dosing, enhancing patient adherence and minimizing gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with immediate-release formulations. This medication is indicated as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic agents, under appropriate medical supervision.

Features

• Contains metformin hydrochloride USP 500mg/1000mg in sustained-release tablets
• Utilizes a hydrophilic matrix system for controlled drug release over 8–10 hours
• pH-independent release mechanism for consistent absorption throughout the GI tract
• Once-daily dosing regimen for improved compliance
• Bioequivalent to immediate-release metformin with reduced Cmax fluctuations
• Manufactured under GMP standards with consistent dissolution profile

Benefits

• Provides stable 24-hour glycemic control with reduced blood glucose fluctuations
• Lowers HbA1c by 1–2% with appropriate lifestyle modifications
• Demonstrates weight-neutral or modest weight-reducing effects compared to other antidiabetic agents
• Reduces the risk of diabetes-related complications through sustained metabolic control
• Offers convenient once-daily dosing to support long-term treatment adherence
• Shows favorable cardiovascular safety profile in long-term use

Common use

Glycomet SR is primarily prescribed for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults when lifestyle modifications alone have proven insufficient. It is particularly suitable for patients who experience gastrointestinal intolerance with immediate-release metformin formulations. The medication may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents including sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, or SGLT2 inhibitors. In some cases, it may be combined with insulin therapy under careful glucose monitoring. Glycomet SR is also used off-label for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) management and prediabetes intervention in specific patient populations.

Dosage and direction

The initial recommended dosage is 500mg once daily with the evening meal, which may be gradually increased based on glycemic response and tolerance. The maintenance dose typically ranges from 1000mg to 2000mg daily, with a maximum recommended dose of 2000mg once daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and must not be crushed, chewed, or divided. Dosage adjustments are required in patients with renal impairment (eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73m² requires reassessment, <30 mL/min/1.73m² is contraindicated). Administration with meals minimizes gastrointestinal discomfort while maintaining bioavailability. Regular monitoring of renal function and hematological parameters is recommended during therapy.

Precautions

Renal function must be assessed before initiation and regularly during treatment (at least annually). Temporary discontinuation is advised during conditions predisposing to renal impairment, including dehydration, severe infection, or planned radiographic procedures with contrast media. Monitor for signs of vitamin B12 deficiency during long-term therapy. Use caution in elderly patients, those with hepatic impairment, or patients consuming alcohol excessively. Avoid use during periods of prolonged fasting or significant calorie restriction. Patients should be educated about recognizing symptoms of lactic acidosis (myalgia, respiratory distress, abdominal discomfort) and seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to metformin or any component of the formulation. Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²) or renal disease. Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis. Acute conditions with potential for renal impairment: dehydration, severe infection, shock. History of lactic acidosis. Acute or chronic disease which may cause tissue hypoxia (e.g., cardiac or respiratory failure, recent myocardial infarction). Hepatic impairment. Excessive alcohol intake, acute or chronic. Use during radiographic studies involving intravascular iodinated contrast materials.

Possible side effects

Common side effects (≥1/100 to <1/10) include gastrointestinal disturbances: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, flatulence, and taste disturbance. These typically occur during initiation and often resolve with continued use. Uncommon side effects (≥1/1,000 to <1/100) include decreased vitamin B12 absorption with possible anemia, skin reactions such as erythema or pruritus, and mild hypoglycemia when used with other antidiabetic agents. Rare side effects (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000) include lactic acidosis (symptoms: hyperventilation, myalgia, malaise), hepatitis, and urticaria. Very rare cases (<1/10,000) of erythema multiforme and pneumonitis have been reported.

Drug interaction

Cimetidine increases metformin exposure by reducing renal tubular secretion. Cationic drugs (amiloride, digoxin, morphine, procainamide, quinidine, quinine, ranitidine, triamterene, trimethoprim, vancomycin) may compete for renal tubular transport systems. Alcohol potentiates metformin’s effect on lactate metabolism and increases risk of lactic acidosis. Glucocorticoids, diuretics, and sympathomimetics may reduce hypoglycemic effect. Iodinated contrast media may acutely impair renal function. Concomitant use with other hypoglycemic agents may potentiate glucose-lowering effects.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day. If remembered near the time of the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Maintain regular meal patterns when missing doses to avoid glycemic fluctuations. Patients should monitor blood glucose levels more frequently following missed doses and contact their healthcare provider if significant hyperglycemia occurs.

Overdose

Metformin overdose may lead to lactic acidosis, characterized by acid-base imbalance, electrolyte disturbances, and hypothermia. Symptoms include vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, tachycardia, lethargy, and respiratory distress. Hypoglycemia has not been reported with metformin monotherapy overdose but may occur with combination therapy. There is no specific antidote for metformin overdose. Treatment involves immediate gastric lavage if ingestion recent, correction of acidosis with intravenous sodium bicarbonate, and hemodialysis to correct acidosis and remove metformin (clearance 170 mL/min). Supportive measures include maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance and monitoring vital signs.

Storage

Store below 30°C in original packaging to protect from moisture and light. Keep container tightly closed. Do not remove desiccant from packaging. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use tablets that show signs of physical damage or discoloration. Properly dispose of expired or unused medication through pharmaceutical take-back programs. Do not flush medications down the toilet or drain unless instructed to do so.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual patient requirements may vary based on clinical condition, comorbidities, and concomitant medications. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before initiating, adjusting, or discontinuing any medication. The prescribing physician should be familiar with complete prescribing information and current clinical guidelines. Patients should not make treatment decisions based solely on this information. Regular medical supervision is essential during Glycomet SR therapy.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Glycomet SR’s efficacy in reducing HbA1c by 1.5–2.0% with once-daily dosing. Patients report improved gastrointestinal tolerance compared to immediate-release formulations. Healthcare providers note enhanced adherence rates due to simplified dosing regimen. Long-term observational studies show sustained glycemic control over 12–24 months of treatment. Real-world evidence supports its position as a well-tolerated first-line therapy with predictable pharmacokinetic profile. Combination therapy studies show synergistic effects with other antidiabetic agents without significant additional side effects.