Metaglez Forte Tablet

Introduction to Metaglez Forte Tablet

Metaglez Forte Tablet is a combination of Glipizide and Metformin which belongs to the group of medicines called Antidiabetic agents. It is used in adults to treat type II diabetes mellitus when diet, exercise and treatment with single agents does not result in adequate sugar control.

Type II diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease characterized by abnormally high levels of glucose in the blood. It is caused due to inadequate production of a hormone called insulin (produced by pancreas to metabolize glucose) in the body or due to inadequate sensitivity of body cells to the actions of insulin.

Before taking Metaglez Forte Tablet, inform your doctor if you have any liver, kidney or heart problems. You must also inform your doctor if you have any hormonal imbalance, alcoholism, or if you are malnourished, starved, on an irregular diet as a precaution.

Metaglez Forte Tablet is strictly not recommended for use in patients with type I diabetes mellitus, severe heart failure or lactic acidosis. It is also not suitable for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Along with the treatment, follow the diet and lifestyle changes advised by your doctor to achieve better results. Avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol while taking Metaglez Forte Tablet as it may aggravate your existing condition.

The most common side effects of taking Metaglez Forte Tablet are low blood sugar levels, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach upset and changes in taste. Consult your doctor if any of these side effect worsens.

Uses of Metaglez Forte

• Treats Type II Diabetes mellitus

How Does Metaglez Forte Works

Metaglez Forte Tablet stimulates the pancreas to secrete more insulin (a hormone involved in glucose metabolism). It also makes our body more sensitive to insulin which helps in digesting the circulating sugars (glucose) in the blood, thereby reducing blood sugar levels. Additionally, it can also reduce the amount of glucose produced by the liver and reduces its absorption in the body.

Side Effects of Metaglez Forte

Common Side Effects

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels)
• Nausea, vomiting
• Diarrhea, stomach pain, loss of appetite
• Changes in taste, metallic taste

Serious Side Effects

• Allergic reactions
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Severe or persistent headache
• Signs of liver problems
• Signs of kidney problems
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

Rare Side Effects

• Vision changes or disturbances
• Hearing changes or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Blood disorders (e.g., thrombocytopenia, leukopenia)
• Serious skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
• Nervous system disorders (e.g., seizures, tremors)
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Severe gastrointestinal issues (e.g., pancreatitis, colitis)
• Severe liver problems (hepatitis, liver failure)
• Severe kidney problems (acute kidney injury)

Dosage of Metaglez Forte

• Dosage Strength: The “Forte” in the drug name may indicate a higher strength of the medication, but without additional information, it’s challenging to provide specific dosing details.
• Frequency of Administration: Some medications are taken once daily, while others may require multiple doses throughout the day.
• Timing: The timing of doses (e.g., with or without food) can vary depending on the medication.
• Titration: Some medications may require a starting dose that is gradually increased over time.
• Individualization: Dosages are often personalized for each patient based on their specific needs and response to the medication.

How to Manage Side Effects 

• Communicate with your healthcare provider
• Follow the prescribed dosage
• Take with or after food
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid alcohol and certain foods
• Report allergic reactions immediately
• Manage pain or discomfort
• Get sufficient rest
• Avoid driving or operating machinery
• Monitor your symptoms

Safety Advice

• Take as Prescribed
• Allergies
• Drug Interactions
• Medical History
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Metaglez Forte Tablet?

Ans. Metaglez Forte Tablet 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.

2. What are the possible side effects of Metaglez Forte Tablet?

Ans. The use of Metaglez Forte Tablet 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.

3. Can the use of Metaglez Forte Tablet cause hypoglycemia?

Ans. Yes, the use of Metaglez Forte Tablet 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.

4. Can the use of Metaglez Forte Tablet cause lactic acidosis?

Ans. Yes, the use of Metaglez Forte Tablet 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 Metaglez Forte Tablet and immediately consult your doctor.