Introduction About GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET

Glyciphage 500mg Tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride 500mg, a well-established oral antidiabetic medicine widely prescribed to support better blood sugar management in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It works by lowering excess glucose production in the liver, improving the body’s response to insulin, and reducing sugar absorption from the intestine. Glyciphage is often recommended as a first-line option in patients whose blood sugar levels remain above target despite dietary modifications and regular physical activity. It may also be used alongside other antidiabetic medicines to achieve optimal control.

This medicine is ideally suited for adults with type 2 diabetes, especially those who are overweight or have high fasting blood sugar levels, where insulin resistance plays a major role. Glyciphage can help reduce the risk of long-term diabetes-related complications when used consistently along with lifestyle adjustments. Your doctor will determine the dose and frequency based on your blood sugar profile, general health, and ongoing treatment plan. It is usually taken with meals to reduce the risk of stomach upset and improve its effectiveness.

Before starting Glyciphage, inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, heart conditions, chronic alcohol use, or a history of metabolic acidosis. Avoid consuming excessive alcohol while on this medicine, as it can increase the risk of a rare but serious condition called lactic acidosis. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use this medicine only under medical supervision, as the benefits and risks must be carefully weighed by the healthcare provider.

Commonly reported effects may include mild stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, especially when starting the treatment. These symptoms usually subside as your body adjusts to the medicine. If you notice unusual fatigue, muscle pain, breathing difficulty, or persistent abdominal discomfort, seek medical advice immediately. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and periodic kidney function checks are recommended during long-term use.

Uses Of GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET

• Used to manage type II diabetes mellitus

Benefits of GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET

Glyciphage for Glucose Management

Glyciphage 500mg Tablet contains metformin, which helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels throughout the day. It works by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improving the way your body uses insulin. When taken regularly along with a balanced diet and physical activity, Glyciphage supports better control of blood sugar fluctuations. Your doctor will determine the right dose based on your individual health needs.

Glyciphage for Better Insulin Response

One of the key benefits of Glyciphage 500mg is its ability to improve how your body responds to insulin. In certain health conditions like type 2 diabetes, the body’s cells may not respond effectively to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar. Glyciphage helps increase insulin sensitivity, making it easier for glucose to enter the cells and be used for energy. This results in better overall sugar balance and improved metabolic health.

Glyciphage for Healthy Glucose Metabolism

Healthy glucose metabolism is essential for keeping energy levels steady and avoiding harmful spikes or drops in blood sugar. Glyciphage supports this by slowing down the absorption of sugar from food and reducing excess glucose production in the liver. Combined with healthy eating and regular exercise, it promotes a balanced and efficient glucose metabolism, contributing to overall well-being.

How GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET Works

Glyciphage 500mg Mechanism of Action

Glyciphage 500mg Tablet contains metformin, which helps manage high blood sugar by working on multiple pathways in the body. It lowers the amount of glucose produced by the liver, slows the absorption of sugar from the digestive tract, and improves how the body responds to insulin. This combined action helps glucose move into the cells to be used for energy, instead of staying in the blood. When taken regularly with proper diet and physical activity, it supports more stable and healthy blood sugar levels.

Glyciphage 500mg Tablet: Liver Glucose Control

The liver plays a major role in controlling blood sugar by releasing glucose into the bloodstream. In some health conditions, the liver may produce more glucose than needed, leading to elevated sugar levels. Glyciphage 500mg helps regulate this process by reducing excess glucose production in the liver. This targeted action supports steady blood sugar control and helps prevent sudden spikes, especially between meals or overnight.

How to use GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET

How to Take Glyciphage Tablet

• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew it.
• Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor for best results.
• Maintain a regular time each day to take your dose for steady blood sugar control.
• Always follow the dosage and duration advised by your healthcare provider.

Glyciphage 500mg Dosage Instructions

• The dosage may vary depending on your blood sugar levels and medical condition.
• Usually started at a low dose, which may be gradually increased if required.
• Do not change the dose or stop taking the medicine without medical advice.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next one

Should Glyciphage 500mg Be Taken Before or After Meals

• Glyciphage 500mg is generally recommended with meals to reduce stomach discomfort.
• Taking it with food helps improve absorption and lowers the risk of nausea or diarrhea.
• Avoid taking it on an empty stomach unless your doctor specifically instructs otherwise.
• Try to take it at the same time each day for better blood sugar management.

What if I forgot to take GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one.
• Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for the missed dose.
• Continue with your regular dosing schedule as advised by your doctor.
• Missing doses often can affect your blood sugar control, so try to take it consistently.
• If you frequently forget, set reminders or alarms to help you remember.

Overdose

If you or someone else accidentally consumes more than the recommended dose of GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET, seek medical advice immediately or visit the nearest hospital. Signs of an overdose may include vomiting, stomach pain accompanied by muscle cramps, extreme tiredness, feeling unwell, and difficulty breathing.

Side Effects Of GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET

Common side effects of Glyciphage 500mg Tablet:

• Diarrhoea
•  Stomach pain
• Loss of appetite
• Changes in taste, metallic taste

When to Seek Medical Attention?

Stop taking GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET and consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects:

• serious allergic reaction (such as hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat causing difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• signs of liver problems (such as nausea or vomiting, stomach pain, unusual or unexplained tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes)
• signs of lactic acidosis (cold hands or feet, dizziness or light-headedness, slow or irregular heartbeat, weakness or tiredness, unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, sleepiness or drowsiness, stomach pains, nausea or vomiting

How To Manage Side Effects

Diarrhea

• Drink plenty of clean, boiled or filtered water to prevent dehydration.
• Use Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
• Take clear liquids like coconut water, rice water, or mild soups for hydration.
• Eat a light BRAT diet – Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast – to be gentle on the stomach.
• Avoid oily, spicy, high-fiber, or dairy-rich foods until digestion improves.
• Rest well and avoid strenuous activities to help your body recover.
• Seek medical advice if diarrhoea lasts more than 2–3 days or if you notice signs of dehydration.

Loss Of Appetite

• Drink a glass of warm lemon water with honey in the morning to stimulate digestion.
• Eat small, frequent meals instead of large portions to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Include ginger tea or fresh ginger slices in your diet, as ginger helps boost hunger naturally.
• Add mild spices like cumin, black pepper, or fennel to meals to enhance taste and improve appetite.
• Take light physical activity, such as a short walk, to help trigger natural hunger signals.
• Avoid excess caffeine, alcohol and processed foods, which can suppress appetite.
• If loss of appetite persists for more than a week or is accompanied by weight loss, consult a doctor.

Warning & Precautions

Pregnancy

Consult your doctor

There is limited information on the use of GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET during pregnancy. Speak to your doctor for guidance before using it.    

Breastfeeding

Consult your doctor

Limited data is available on the use of GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET during breastfeeding. Consult your doctor for advice.  

Driving and Using Machines

Use with Caution

Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if this medicine affects your alertness or ability to concentrate. 

Alcohol

Contraindicated

Do not consume alcohol while taking GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET, as it may increase the chance of side effects.

Kidney

Contraindicated

This medicine is not recommended for people with severe kidney problems. Consult your doctor before taking it. 

Liver

Consult your doctor

GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET is not recommended for use in patients with severe liver problems. It should be used with caution in patients with other liver problems.

Allergy

Contraindicated

Avoid using this medicine if you are allergic to Metformin or any of its ingredients.

Lungs

Contraindicated

Not recommended for patients with serious lung or respiratory infections. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

Heart Disease

Contraindicated

GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET is not suitable for patients with certain heart problems, such as recent heart attack or acute heart failure.

Use In Pediatrics

Consult your doctor

This medicine has not been studied in children. Seek medical advice before use.

Use In Geriatrics

Use with Caution

Elderly patients (above 65 years) should take this medicine carefully under medical supervision.

Other Warnings for GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET

Before taking GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET, inform your doctor if you:

• are about to have any X-ray or scan
• are about a have a major surgery
• are in fasting

Who should not take [GBNKEYWORD

GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET is not recommended for use if you:

• have severe, uncontrollable diabetes
• have lactic acidosis or ketoacidosis  
• are dehydrated  
• have any systemic infection  
• have shock or problems in blood circulation
• have breathing problems
• are an alcoholic

Safety Advice

• Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, preferably with meals to reduce stomach discomfort. 
• Stay hydrated and avoid skipping meals while on this medicine.
• If you develop symptoms such as breathing difficulty, severe tiredness, muscle cramps, or stomach pain, seek medical attention immediately.
• Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and kidney function may be required during use.

Diet and Lifestyle Advice

• Include plenty of high-fibre foods like whole grains, vegetables, and legumes to support healthy blood sugar control.
• Eat small, balanced meals at regular intervals to maintain steady energy levels.
• Limit intake of refined carbohydrates and sugary snacks to avoid sudden spikes in blood sugar.
• Incorporate lean protein sources such as fish, eggs, tofu, or legumes in your daily meals.
• Choose healthy fats like nuts, seeds, olive oil, and avocado instead of saturated fats.
• Engage in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, yoga, or light exercise, as advised by your doctor.
• Maintain a healthy body weight through a balanced combination of diet and exercise.
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques like meditation, breathing exercises, or light stretching.
• Ensure you get adequate sleep each night to help maintain stable metabolism and energy.
• Avoid skipping meals, as it can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

1. Glyciphage 500mg vs. Janumet 50/500mg for glucose management:

2. Glyciphage 500mg vs. Voglibose + Metformin combination for post-meal sugar control:

Drug - Drug interaction

1. Diuretics (Water Tablets) – e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide

Interaction: May increase the risk of dehydration and affect kidney function, which can raise the chance of lactic acidosis.
Management: Monitor kidney function regularly and ensure adequate fluid intake. Your doctor may adjust the dose or suggest an alternative medicine.

2. Corticosteroids – e.g., prednisolone, dexamethasone

Interaction: Can increase blood sugar levels, reducing the effectiveness of Glyciphage 500mg.
Management: Regularly check blood sugar levels and adjust the diabetes medicine dose if necessary, under medical supervision.

3. Blood Pressure Medicines (ACE inhibitors / ARBs) – e.g., enalapril, losartan

Interaction: May affect kidney function, increasing the risk of side effects from metformin.
Management: Monitor kidney function and blood pressure regularly; dosage changes may be required.

4. Beta-blockers – e.g., propranolol, atenolol

Interaction: Can mask the warning signs of low blood sugar (like rapid heartbeat).
Management: Monitor blood sugar closely and watch for other signs of low sugar such as sweating or dizziness.

5. Iodinated Contrast Agents (for X-ray/CT scans) – e.g., iohexol, iopamidol

Interaction: May temporarily affect kidney function, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis.
Management: Stop Glyciphage 500mg before the procedure and restart only when kidney function returns to normal, as advised by your doctor.

6. Anti-epileptic Medicines – e.g., phenytoin, phenobarbital

Interaction: May reduce the effectiveness of metformin in controlling blood sugar.
Management: Regular blood sugar monitoring and possible dose adjustment may be required.

7. Certain Antibiotics – e.g., rifampicin, trimethoprim

Interaction: Some antibiotics can affect kidney function or increase metformin levels in the blood.
Management: Your doctor may monitor kidney function and adjust the dose during antibiotic treatment.

8. Thyroid Medicines – e.g., levothyroxine

Interaction: May increase blood sugar levels, reducing metformin’s effect.
Management: Monitor blood sugar closely and adjust diabetes medicine as needed.

9. Antifungal Medicines – e.g., ketoconazole

Interaction: May affect liver function and alter the way metformin works.
Management: Use with caution; liver function and blood sugar should be monitored regularly.

10. HIV Medicines – e.g., dolutegravir, abacavir

Interaction: Can increase the concentration of metformin in the blood, raising side effect risks.
Management: Dose adjustment of metformin may be required, along with regular monitoring.

Drug - Food interaction

1. High-Fat Meals

Interaction: May delay the absorption of metformin and increase the chance of stomach upset.
Management: Take the medicine with balanced meals instead of very fatty or greasy foods.

2.Excessive Caffeine – coffee, tea, energy drinks

Interaction: Caffeine may increase blood sugar levels and counteract metformin’s effect in some individuals.
Management: Limit caffeine intake and monitor your blood sugar regularly.

3. Sugary Foods and Drinks – desserts, soft drinks, sweets

Interaction: Can cause sudden spikes in blood sugar, reducing the effectiveness of the medicine.
Management: Choose sugar-free or low-sugar alternatives and follow a balanced diet plan.

4. Refined Carbohydrates – white bread, pasta, pastries

Interaction: May raise blood sugar quickly, making it harder for the medicine to control levels.
Management: Opt for whole grains and fibre-rich foods for better blood sugar management.

5. Grapefruit Juice

Interaction: May alter how certain medicines are metabolized, potentially affecting metformin’s action in some people.
Management: Avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice unless your doctor says it is safe for you.

Synopsis

More Information

FAQs About GLYCIPHAGE 500MG TABLET

References

1. KD. Tripathi. Insulin, Oral Hypoglycaemic Drugs and Glucagon. Essentials of medical pharmacology. Seventh edition. 2013. Page – 275. 

2. Calette Corcoran; Tibb F. Jacobs. Metformin. StatPearls. NIH. National Library of Medicine. National center for biotechnology information. PMC. PubMed Central. [Revised in 17th August 2023]. [Accessed on 11th August 2025] 

3. Shuyan Gu, Jihao Shi, Zhiliu Tang, Monika Sawhney, Huimei Hu, Lizheng Shi, Vivian Fonseca, Hengjin Dong. Comparison of Glucose Lowering Effect of Metformin and Acarbose in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Meta-Analysis. PLOS ONE. [Revised in 11thMay 2015]. [Accessed on 11th August 2025]  

4. Franco Indian Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd. GLYCIPHAGE® TABLETS. (ORAL ANTI-HYPERGLYCEMIC AGENT). [Accessed on 11th August 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 By Dr. Sankara Babu Gorle - MBBS, MD(Pharmacology) View profile

Last updated on 14 Aug 2025 | 03:29 PM(IST)