Part Two of Glucovance Information, Focusing on Side Effects, Discontinuation or Withdrawal Effects, and Additional Information

This second section of our medication database entry focuses on potential side effects, withdrawal or discontinuation effects, and additional information, while part one covers basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits.

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What are the possible side effects of glyburide and metformin?

  • Stop taking glyburide and metformin and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives) to glyburide and metformin.
  • A small number of people who have taken metformin have developed a serious condition called lactic acidosis that has been fatal in up to 50% of cases. Lactic acidosis has occurred most often in people whose kidneys were not working properly. Liver problems may also increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis. Stop taking glyburide and metformin and call your doctor immediately if you experience a feeling of general discomfort or sickness; weakness; sore or aching muscles; trouble breathing, unusual drowsiness, dizziness or lightheadedness; unusual or unexplained stomach upset (after the initial stomach upset that may occur at the start of therapy with glyburide and metformin); or the sudden development of a slow or irregular heartbeat. These may be signs of lactic acidosis.
  • Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take glyburide and metformin and talk to your doctor if you experience
    • nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea at the start of therapy;
    • symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) including hunger, headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea; or
    • headache.
  • Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect glyburide and metformin?

  • Since many medications can interact with glyburide and metformin or affect your blood sugar control, do not take any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines while taking glyburide and metformin without first talking to your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

  • Your pharmacist has additional information about glyburide and metformin written for health professionals that you may read.
  • Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Limitations and the Source of Our Online Medication Information Database

Although we have made considerable efforts to ensure that the information provided here is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, MedLibrary.org makes no guarantee to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. This medication information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend any specific pharmacotherapy. This is an educational resource only -- intended to supplement but not to replace the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of medically qualified healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, please check with your doctor, nurse or local pharmacist. MedLibrary.org does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information provided here.

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Version: 1.05. Revision Date: 2/14/03.

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