What is Gliclazide & Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets ?
Gliclazide and metformin hydrochloride tablets are a combination medication used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. This combination medication contains two active ingredients: gliclazide and metformin hydrochloride
Gliclazide & Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets Use
- Type 2 Diabetes Management:
- Gliclazide and metformin tablets are primarily prescribed for individuals with type 2 diabetes. This type of diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion.
- Dual Mechanism of Action:
- Gliclazide (a sulfonylurea) works by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin, which helps lower blood sugar levels.
- Metformin (a biguanide) primarily reduces the amount of sugar produced by the liver and increases the sensitivity of muscle cells to insulin.
- Combination Therapy:
- This medication is particularly useful for individuals who require more than one type of medication to achieve adequate blood sugar control. By combining gliclazide and metformin, patients benefit from both increased insulin release and improved insulin sensitivity.
- Control of Fasting and Postprandial Blood Sugar:
- Gliclazide primarily helps control postprandial (after-meal) blood sugar levels, while metformin is effective at reducing fasting blood sugar levels. Together, they provide comprehensive blood sugar control throughout the day.
- Reducing the Risk of Complications:
- Properly managed blood sugar levels can help reduce the risk of long-term complications associated with diabetes, such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and eye problems.
- Improved Quality of Life:
- By helping to regulate blood sugar levels, this medication can improve overall well-being and quality of life for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Gliclazide & Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
Gliclazide:
Mechanism of Action:
- Gliclazide belongs to a class of medications called sulfonylureas.
- It works by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin. This is achieved by binding to specific receptors on the surface of pancreatic beta cells. This binding triggers a series of events leading to an increase in insulin secretion.
Metformin Hydrochloride:
Mechanism of Action:
- Metformin belongs to the biguanide class of medications.
- It primarily works by reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver. It does this by decreasing the liver’s production of glucose and increasing the sensitivity of muscle cells to insulin, allowing them to use glucose more effectively.
Gliclazide & Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets – Side-effects
- Weight Gain: Some people may experience weight gain while taking gliclazide.
- Gastrointestinal Upset: This can include nausea, stomach pain, and diarrhea.
- Skin Reactions: In rare cases, gliclazide can cause skin rashes or itching.