Glizid M Tablet 15'S

Introduction About GLIZID M TABLET

GLIZID M TABLET is a combination medication containing gliclazide and metformin which belongs to the group of medicines called Antidiabetic agents. It is used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults when lifestyle modifications alone are insufficient. This medication works by increasing insulin secretion from the pancreas (gliclazide) and reducing glucose production in the liver while enhancing the body's response to insulin (metformin). This medication is intended to be used alongside a healthy diet and regular physical activity as part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan.

GLIZID M TABLET should be taken with food to help reduce stomach discomfort. For best results, take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent medication levels in your body. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for you, and this may be adjusted from time to time based on how well your blood sugar is controlled.

Continue taking this medication as prescribed, even if you feel well or your blood sugar is under control. Stopping GLIZID M TABLET without your doctor’s advice can cause your blood sugar levels to rise, increasing the risk of serious complications such as kidney damage, vision loss, nerve problems, and even limb loss. Remember, this medicine is just one part of your diabetes management plan, which should also include a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management as recommended by your doctor. Your lifestyle choices play a crucial role in effectively controlling diabetes.

Common side effects of this medicine include hypoglycemia, digestive discomfort, nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation, headache, sleep disturbances, altered taste, stomach pain and upper respiratory tract infections. To avoid low blood sugar while taking GLIZID M TABLET, make sure to eat regular meals and always keep a quick source of glucose, such as sugary snacks or fruit juice, with you. Alcohol should be avoided, as it can further increase your risk of hypoglycemia. Some individuals may also notice weight gain while taking this medication.

Do not take GLIZID M TABLET if you have type 1 diabetes mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis (a condition with high acid levels in the blood), or severe kidney or liver disease. Before starting this medication, inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disease, as it may not be appropriate for you. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before taking this medicine. Your blood sugar should be monitored regularly, and your doctor may also recommend blood tests to check your blood cell counts and liver function during management.

Uses Of GLIZID M TABLET

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus

Benefits of GLIZID M TABLET

1) Dual-action formula: GLIZID M TABLET combines two well-established anti-diabetic agents such as gliclazide and metformin. It helps to provide enhanced blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Gliclazide stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin, while metformin reduces glucose production in the liver and improves the body’s response to insulin.

2) Supports consistent glucose levels: This combination helps maintain more stable blood sugar levels throughout the day, especially when taken with meals and as directed by your healthcare provider. The slow-release formulation ensures a steady effect, reducing fluctuations in glucose levels.

3) Reduces tablet burden: By combining two medications in a single tablet, GLIZID M TABLET simplifies diabetes management and may reduce the number of pills you need to take daily, making your treatment routine easier to follow.

4) Backed by clinical experience: GLIZID M TABLET is widely used and recommended for individuals with type 2 diabetes who need additional help beyond diet and exercise. Its effectiveness and safety profile are supported by extensive clinical use.

5) May help lower the risk of complications: Effective blood sugar control with GLIZID M TABLET is associated with a reduced risk of diabetes-related complications, such as nerve damage (neuropathy), kidney disease (nephropathy), and eye problems (retinopathy). Consistent management can also help decrease the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke.

6) Additional benefits: Improved insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, and when paired with a healthy lifestyle, it may assist in weight management for some individuals.

How GLIZID M TABLET Works

GLIZID M TABLET is a combination of two anti-diabetic medications such as gliclazide and metformin, that work together to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Mechanism of Action: Gliclazide in GLIZID M TABLET

• Gliclazide is a sulfonylurea that stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas.
• It binds to the sulfonylurea receptor (SUR1) on pancreatic β-cells, blocking ATP-sensitive potassium channels.
• This leads to cell membrane depolarization, opening voltage-dependent calcium channels, increasing intracellular calcium, and triggering the release of insulin-containing granules.
• Gliclazide also improves peripheral insulin sensitivity and helps correct defective insulin secretion.

Mechanism of Action: Metformin in GLIZID M TABLET

• Metformin is a biguanide that primarily works by reducing glucose production in the liver (hepatic gluconeogenesis).
• It also increases the body’s sensitivity to insulin, enhancing glucose uptake and utilization in peripheral tissues.
• Metformin delays glucose absorption from the intestines and does not stimulate insulin secretion, so it generally does not cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when used alone.

Combined Effects of Gliclazide and Metformin

• The combination provides an additive antihyperglycemic effect: gliclazide increases insulin secretion, while metformin improves insulin sensitivity and reduces hepatic glucose output.
• This dual action helps achieve better blood sugar control than either medicine alone, with a lower risk of side effects associated with higher doses of a single drug.

GLIZID M TABLET: Insulin Secretion and Sensitivity

• Insulin secretion: Gliclazide directly stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin in response to meals.
• Insulin sensitivity: Metformin enhances the body’s response to insulin, making cells more effective at absorbing and using glucose.

GLIZID M TABLET and Blood Sugar Regulation

• By both increasing insulin levels (gliclazide) and improving insulin action (metformin), GLIZID M TABLET helps maintain stable blood glucose throughout the day and reduces the risk of diabetes-related complications.

Understanding GLIZID M TABLET’s Dual Mechanism

• The dual mechanism addresses two major problems in type 2 diabetes: insufficient insulin secretion and insulin resistance.
• This comprehensive approach supports better long-term blood sugar management and may reduce the risk of complications such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and eye problems.

How to use GLIZID M TABLET

Recommended Dosage and Administration:

• Take GLIZID M TABLET exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not exceed the recommended daily dosage.
• The dosage will depend on your individual medical condition, blood sugar levels, and response to management.
• Do not change the dose or frequency without consulting your doctor. 

When to Take GLIZID M TABLET for Best Results:

• For optimal effect, take GLIZID M TABLET at the same time each day.
• This helps maintain consistent medication levels in your body and supports better blood sugar control.

GLIZID M TABLET:With or Without Food?

• Always take GLIZID M TABLET with food, preferably just before or during meals.
• This reduces the risk of gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea or stomach upset and helps to reduce low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

What if I forgot to take GLIZID M TABLET

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one at the regular time. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. 

Maximum Daily Dose and Dose Adjustments: 

• The maximum daily dose and frequency will be determined by your doctor based on your specific needs.
• Never exceed the prescribed dose, as taking more can increase the risk of hypoglycemia and other side effects.
• Your doctor may adjust your dose over time depending on your blood sugar control and any side effects you experience.

Precautions During Administration:

• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet
• Inform your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or heart disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before starting this medication.

Tips for Safe Use of GLIZID M TABLET:

• Monitor your blood sugar regularly as advised by your doctor.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise for best results.
• Always carry a fast-acting source of glucose (like sugary food or fruit juice) in case you experience symptoms of low blood sugar.
• Avoid alcohol, as it can increase your risk of hypoglycemia.
• Keep all follow-up appointments for blood tests to monitor your blood cell counts and liver function as recommended by your doctor.
• Do not stop taking GLIZID M TABLET without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well or your blood sugar is controlled. 

Side Effects Of GLIZID M TABLET

Like all medicines, GLIZID M TABLET may cause certain side effects in some individuals, although not everybody gets them.

The most common side effects of taking GLIZID M TABLET are:

• Hypoglycemia
• Digestive discomfort
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Headache
• Sleep disturbances
• Altered taste
• Stomach pain
• Upper respiratory tract infections

When to consult your doctor?

• Lactic acidosis symptoms such as deep or rapid breathing, persistent nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and unexplained tiredness.
• Severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) symptoms such as sweating, dizziness, headache, shaking, confusion, fainting, loss of consciousness
• Serious allergic reactions symptoms such as swelling of lips, mouth, throat, or tongue, difficulty breathing, tightness in the throat, rash that is swollen, raised, itchy, blistered, or peeling, sudden confusion, drowsiness, or dizziness
• Liver problems symptoms such as yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), dark urine, abdominal pain, loss of appetite
• Blood disorders symptoms such as unusual paleness, prolonged bleeding, easy bruising, sore throat, high fever

How To Manage Side Effects

Diarrhea

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of clear fluids like water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear broths to replace lost fluids and prevent dehydration.
• Eat Light, Simple Foods: Choose bland foods such as bananas, rice, toast, or applesauce. Avoid fatty, spicy, or high-fiber foods until your symptoms improve.
• Rest: Give your body time to recover by resting as much as possible.
• Avoid Dairy and Caffeine: These can sometimes make diarrhea worse, so limit milk, cheese, coffee, and caffeinated drinks until you feel better.
• Monitor Symptoms: If diarrhea lasts more than a couple of days, becomes severe, or is accompanied by symptoms like fever, blood in the stool, or dehydration (such as dizziness or decreased urination), contact your doctor.

Headache

• Rest in a Quiet, Dark Room: Find a calm, quiet space away from bright lights and loud noises. Lie down and close your eyes.
• Hydrate: Dehydration can contribute to headaches, so drink plenty of water.
• Apply a Cold or Warm Compress: A cold pack on your forehead may reduce pain, or a warm compress on your neck or shoulders can relieve tension.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: You can take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if appropriate for you. Follow the recommended dosage.
• Practice Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle stretching can help reduce stress and alleviate headache symptoms.

Nausea And Vomiting

• Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Avoid heavy or greasy foods. Opt for bland foods like crackers, toast, or bananas.
• Stay Hydrated: Sip on clear fluids like water, ginger tea, or electrolyte drinks, Avoid caffeinated and carbonated beverages.
• Ginger: Ginger is a natural remedy for nausea. Try ginger tea, ginger candies, or ginger ale (ensure it contains real ginger).
• Avoid Strong Odors: Minimize exposure to smells that might trigger nausea, such as perfumes or cooking odors.

Warning & Precautions

Pregnancy

Monitoring required

GLIZID M TABLET is not recommended during pregnancy due to risk of fetal harm. Use only if prescribed by a doctor when benefits outweigh risks. Consult your doctor before taking this medication. 

Breastfeeding

Contraindicated

GLIZID M TABLET is not recommended during breast feeding as it is unknown if GLIZID M TABLET or its metabolites are excreted in breast milk. Consult your doctor before taking this medication. 

Driving and Using Machines

Use with Caution

Do not drive or operate any heavy tools or machines if you feel hypoglycemia or dizziness or drowsiness or vision disturbances or sweating. Always keep sugar or chocolate handy in case of low blood sugar.

Alcohol

Contraindicated

Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking GLIZID M TABLET because it can increase the risk of hypoglycemia and may worsen side effects. 

Kidney

Consult your doctor

GLIZID M TABLET is not recommended in patients with severe kidney disease or severe impairment due to risk of lactic acidosis. Dose adjustment and close monitoring needed in mild/moderate impairment. Consult your doctor before taking this medication.

Liver

Consult your doctor

GLIZID M TABLET is not recommended in patients with liver failure and should be used with caution in patients with other liver problems. Consult your doctor before taking this medication.

Allergy

Contraindicated

Do not take GLIZID M TABLET if you are allergic to gliclazide or metformin or any other ingredients of this medicine.

Lungs

Contraindicated

GLIZID M TABLET is not recommended in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other severe lung diseases. Consult your doctor before taking this medication. 

Heart Disease

Consult your doctor

GLIZID M TABLET is not recommended in patients with coronary heart disease or cardiac failure, or peripheral vascular disease and should be used with caution in patients with history of heart disease. Consult your doctor before taking this medication.

Use In Pediatrics

Contraindicated

GLIZID M TABLET is not recommended for use in children and adolescents as safety and effectiveness not established. Consult your pediatrician before giving it.

Use In Geriatrics

Use with Caution

GLIZID M TABLET should be used with caution in elderly patients with normal kidney function. Consult your doctor before taking this medication.

Other Warnings for GLIZID M TABLET

Who should not take [GBNKEYWORD

GLIZID M TABLET is not recommended for use if you have:

• type 1 diabetes mellitus
• severe ketosis and acidosis
• planned for surgery
• severe trauma
• severe infections

Drug - Drug interaction

Inform your physician if you are taking any of the following medicine before taking GLIZID M TABLET:

1. Beta-Blockers (e.g., Propranolol, Atenolol)

• Interaction: Beta-blockers may mask symptoms of hypoglycemia (such as rapid heartbeat), making it harder to detect low blood sugar while on GLIZID M TABLET .
• Effects: Increased risk of unrecognized hypoglycemia, which can lead to confusion, dizziness, or even loss of consciousness if untreated.
• Management: Monitor blood glucose levels closely. Patients should be educated on alternative signs of hypoglycemia like sweating or anxiety. Dose adjustments of GLIZID M TABLET or beta-blockers may be necessary.

2. Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisolone, Dexamethasone)

• Interaction: Corticosteroids can increase blood glucose levels and counteract the glucose-lowering effects of GLIZID M TABLET .
• Effects: Reduced effectiveness of GLIZID M TABLET , leading to hyperglycemia.
• Management: Blood glucose levels should be monitored more frequently. The dose of GLIZID M TABLET may need adjustment during corticosteroid use.

3. ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Enalapril, Ramipril)

• Interaction: ACE inhibitors may enhance the blood sugar-lowering effect of GLIZID M TABLET, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
• Effects: Increased risk of low blood sugar episodes.
• Management: Monitor blood glucose levels closely, especially when initiating or adjusting doses. Educate patients to recognize symptoms of hypoglycemia.

4. Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide)

• Interaction: Diuretics may reduce the efficacy of GLIZID M TABLET by raising blood glucose levels.
• Effects: Hyperglycemia or reduced glucose control.
• Management: Monitor blood glucose and kidney function. Dose adjustments of GLIZID M TABLET or the diuretic may be necessary.

5. Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics (e.g., Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin)

• Interaction: These antibiotics can alter blood glucose levels unpredictably—causing either hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia when used with GLIZID M TABLET.
• Effects: Fluctuations in blood sugar control, including potential for dangerous hypoglycemia.
• Management: Frequent glucose monitoring is recommended during and after treatment. Use caution in elderly or renally impaired patients.

6. Thyroid Hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine)

• Interaction: Thyroid hormones can reduce the blood glucose-lowering effect of GLIZID M TABLET .
• Effects: Possible worsening of diabetes control due to increased blood sugar.
• Management: Regularly monitor blood glucose, especially when starting or adjusting thyroid medication.

Drug - Food interaction

1. Alcohol (Ethanol)

• Interaction: Alcohol intake enhances the blood sugar-lowering effect of GLIZID M TABLET and increases the risk of lactic acidosis due to metformin.
• Effects: Severe hypoglycemia or life-threatening lactic acidosis—especially with binge or chronic alcohol use.
• Management: Completely avoid alcohol or strictly limit consumption. Educate patients on symptoms of lactic acidosis (muscle pain, weakness, abdominal pain, fatigue, rapid breathing). Monitor blood glucose levels closely.

2. High-Fat Meals

• Interaction: High-fat meals may slow gastric emptying, affecting the absorption rate of GLIZID M TABLET and potentially delaying its onset of action.
• Effects: Inconsistent blood glucose control, possible post-meal hyperglycemia.
• Management: Advise patients to consume balanced meals with controlled fat content. Maintain consistent carbohydrate intake. Monitor postprandial blood glucose.

3. Refined Carbohydrates (e.g., White Bread, Sugary Foods)

• Interaction: High glycemic index foods can counteract the effect of GLIZID M TABLET by causing rapid spikes in blood sugar.
• Effects: Reduced effectiveness of glucose control, post-meal hyperglycemia.
• Management: Encourage a low glycemic index diet. Educate on healthier carbohydrate options like whole grains, legumes, and vegetables. Monitor blood sugar levels regularly after meals.

4. Caffeine (e.g., Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

• Interaction: Excessive caffeine can trigger stress hormones (like adrenaline), which may elevate blood sugar levels and interfere with GLIZID M TABLET 's effectiveness.
• Effects: Elevated fasting or postprandial blood sugar, reduced drug efficacy.
• Management: Limit caffeine intake to moderate levels. Monitor blood glucose, especially if caffeine consumption increases.

5. Grapefruit Juice

• Interaction: Although not a strong interaction, grapefruit juice may interfere with liver enzymes (CYP450) that partially metabolize gliclazide.
• Effects: Slightly altered blood levels of gliclazide, potentially increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
• Management: Limit grapefruit juice intake and monitor for signs of low blood sugar. No significant risk, but caution is advised with large quantities.

6. Fiber-Rich Foods (e.g., Oats, Psyllium Husk)

• Interaction: Excessive dietary fiber can delay or reduce the absorption of metformin and gliclazide.
• Effects: Reduced blood sugar-lowering effect; possible postprandial hyperglycemia.
• Management: Maintain consistent fiber intake. Avoid large, sudden increases in fiber without adjusting medication or monitoring blood glucose.

Synopsis

More Information

1. What are the best diet, exercise and weight management tips to follow while taking GLIZID M TABLET for diabetes control?

2. Product comparison

a) GLIZID M TABLET Vs other common anti-diabetic medications? Why GLIZID M TABLET stands out?

Why GLIZID M TABLET Stands Out?

• Dual Mechanism: Combines gliclazide (stimulates insulin secretion) and metformin (reduces hepatic glucose production) for comprehensive blood sugar control.
• Cost-Effective: More affordable than newer agents like DPP-4 inhibitors, making it suitable for low-resource settings.
• Safety Profile: Gliclazide has a relatively safer cardiovascular profile among sulfonylureas and a moderate risk of hypoglycemia compared to others.
• Convenience: Fixed-dose combination reduces pill burden and improves adherence.
• Supports Lifestyle: Recommended alongside diet and exercise for optimal diabetes management.

FAQs About GLIZID M TABLET

References

1. KD. Tripathi. Insulin, Oral Antidiabetic Drugs and Glucagon. Essentials of medical pharmacology. Eight edition. 2019. Page –295.

2. Corcoran C, Jacobs TF. Metformin. NIH National Library of Medicine, National center for biotechnology information. Stat Pearls. January 2023. [Accessed on 3rd July 2025] 

3. Panacea Biotec Limited. Gliclazide and metformin. [Revised in September 2014] [Accessed on 3rd July 2025] 

4. Brown & Burk UK Ltd. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in May 2022] [Accessed on 3rd July 2025] 

5. Drug bank. Gliclazide. [Accessed on 3rd July 2025] 

6. Drug bank. Metformin. [Accessed on 3rd July 2025] 

Useful Diagnostic Tests

• Random Blood Sugar (RBS)
• Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS)
• Post Prandial Blood Sugar (PPBS)
• Sugar Risk Package
• HbA1C, Also known as Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin

Author Details

Written By Dr. Karthikeyan Rajagopal - M.Pharm (Pharmacology)

Reviewed For Accuracy By Dr. Jaya Prabakaran - MBBS, MD (Diabetology and Family Medicine)

Last updated on 05 Jul 2025 | 09:13 AM(IST)