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from eMedTV.comEffects of Metaglip
Several studies have looked at the effects of Metaglip on type 2 diabetes --in particular, with regards to hemoglobin A1c and fasting blood sugar.Hemoglobin A1c
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a test used to measure long-term blood sugar control. For people without diabetes, HbA1c results are usually less than 6 percent, while people with diabetes usually have higher results. In one study, people taking Metaglip lowered their HbA1c by up to 2.15 percent on average. In the same study, people taking glipizide or metformin alone did not decrease their HbA1c levels as much as people taking Metaglip.
Studies have shown that the higher the HbA1c, the greater the chance for developing long-term problems related to diabetes. This includes such problems as:
- Heart disease
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Diabetic nephropathy.
By getting blood sugar levels under control with Metaglip, it may be possible to decrease the chances of developing these diabetes-related complications.
Fasting Blood Sugar
Fasting blood sugar is another way to study the effects of diabetes drugs. In studies, people taking Metaglip decreased their fasting blood sugar levels by 56.5 mg/dL on average. People taking glipizide or metformin alone did not decrease their fasting blood sugar levels as much as people taking Metaglip.
When and How to Take It
General considerations for when and how to take this drug include the following:- Metaglip comes in tablet form. It should be taken by mouth once or twice a day with meals.
- It is best to try to take it with food in order to prevent stomach upset.
- Metaglip should be taken at the same time(s) each day to maintain an even level of the drug in your blood.
- For the medicine to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD