Product introduction
Glycomet 500 SR Tablet is a sustained-release form of metformin used to control blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. Its extended-release design allows the medicine to be delivered slowly over the day, which can ease stomach-related side effects. It is best taken with food and at the same time each day, and works best when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Doctors may also prescribe it to help manage polycystic ovary syndrome.
Storage: Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Uses of Glycomet 500 SR Tablet
- Management of type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Helps control high blood sugar levels
- Used in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Benefits of Glycomet 500 SR Tablet
Glycomet 500 SR Tablet helps bring high blood sugar levels under control, which is central to managing type 2 diabetes. Keeping blood sugar well managed over time lowers the risk of serious diabetes-related problems such as kidney damage, vision loss, nerve damage and limb complications. Unlike some other diabetes medicines, it carries a lower tendency to cause weight gain or low blood sugar. In women with PCOS, it can help the body use insulin more effectively.
Side effects of Glycomet 500 SR Tablet
Most side effects do not require medical attention and go away as your body adjusts. Consult your doctor if they persist.
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Abdominal discomfort
- Flatulence
- Loss of appetite
How to use Glycomet 500 SR Tablet
Take Glycomet 500 SR Tablet as directed by your doctor, with or just after food. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not chew, crush or break it. Try to take it at the same time each day.
How Glycomet 500 SR Tablet works
Glycomet 500 SR Tablet contains metformin, a biguanide. It lowers blood sugar mainly by reducing the amount of glucose the liver releases and cutting down how much glucose the intestines absorb from food. It also helps the body's cells respond better to insulin, so glucose is used more effectively.
Substitutes for Glycomet 500 SR Tablet
No other medicine with the same composition is listed in our catalogue yet. Message us on WhatsApp and our pharmacist will help you find a suitable alternative.
Safety advice
Drinking alcohol while taking Glycomet 500 SR Tablet is not safe and can raise the risk of side effects such as low blood sugar and lactic acidosis.
It may be used during pregnancy when prescribed by a doctor. Most studies suggest little or no risk to the developing baby, but medical guidance is essential.
It is generally considered usable while breastfeeding under medical supervision, as available data suggest limited risk to the baby, though human studies are limited.
It does not usually affect your ability to drive.
Use with caution in people with significant kidney problems. Your doctor may adjust the dose and monitor kidney function.
It is probably safe to use in people with liver disease when a doctor has prescribed it, though dose adjustment may be considered.
Quick tips
- Take it with a meal to reduce the chance of nausea and stomach upset.
- Compared with some diabetes medicines, it is less likely to cause weight gain or low blood sugar.
- Get medical help promptly if you notice deep or rapid breathing, ongoing nausea, vomiting or stomach pain, as these can be signs of a rare condition called lactic acidosis.
- Long-term use may lower vitamin B12 levels, so your doctor may check this periodically.
- Your doctor will monitor your kidney function while you are on this medicine.
Fact box
| Chemical class | Biguanide derivative |
|---|---|
| Habit forming | No |
| Therapeutic class | ANTI DIABETIC |
| Action class | Biguanides |
Frequently asked questions
What is Glycomet 500 SR Tablet used for?
It is mainly used to control high blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. Doctors also prescribe it to help manage polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by improving how the body responds to insulin.
Why should I swallow the tablet whole?
Glycomet 500 SR is a sustained-release tablet designed to release metformin slowly over time. Chewing, crushing or breaking it would disturb this release and could affect how well it works.
Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?
No. Alcohol can increase the risk of low blood sugar and a rare but serious condition called lactic acidosis, so it should be avoided while on this medicine.
Does Glycomet 500 SR Tablet cause weight gain?
Metformin is generally associated with a lower risk of weight gain and low blood sugar compared with some other diabetes medicines, which is one reason it is often prescribed.
Do I need to take it long term?
Diabetes is usually a long-term condition, so this medicine is often taken for an extended period. Your doctor will decide how long you need it based on your response and overall health.