Buy Generic Metformin + Glyburide Online

Generic Metformin + Glyburide Information

Introduction

Metformin + Glyburide is a fixed‑dose combination medication used primarily for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The product contains the two oral hypoglycaemic agents metformin hydrochloride and glyburide (also known as glibenclamide). It belongs to the diabetes therapeutic class and is marketed for patients who require both an insulin‑sensitising effect (metformin) and an insulin‑secretagogue effect (glyburide).

In Hong Kong, the prevalence of T2DM approaches 10 % in the adult population, driven by rising obesity rates and ageing demographics (Department of Health, Hong Kong). The combination offers a convenient, once‑daily option that can improve adherence compared with separate tablets. Metformin + Glyburide is listed on the Hong Kong Department of Health’s licensed drug register and is frequently prescribed by endocrinologists and primary‑care physicians for adults whose glycaemic control is inadequate on metformin alone.

What is Metformin + Glyburide?

Metformin + Glyburide is the generic version of Glucovance (Merck Sharp & Dohme), containing the same active compound Metformin + Glyburide. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost‑effective treatment option. The product is supplied as solid oral tablets that combine 500 mg metformin with 5 mg glyburide in a single dosage form.

Metformin, a biguanide, reduces hepatic glucose production and improves peripheral glucose uptake. Glyburide, a second‑generation sulfonylurea, stimulates pancreatic β‑cell insulin release. By addressing both insulin resistance and β‑cell dysfunction, the combination targets two major pathophysiological defects of T2DM.

Manufacturers of the generic formulation are required to meet the Hong Kong Pharmacy Council’s Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and to undergo bioequivalence testing as stipulated by the Hong Kong Department of Health and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These regulatory requirements ensure the generic product delivers the same efficacy and safety profile as the reference brand.

How Metformin + Glyburide Works

Metformin acts primarily by inhibiting mitochondrial respiratory complex I, which decreases hepatic gluconeogenesis. The drug also increases AMP‑activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity, promoting glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and fatty‑acid oxidation. Clinically, metformin produces a modest reduction in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) within 1–2 weeks, reaching a stable effect after 4–6 weeks of therapy.

Glyburide binds to the sulfonylurea receptor 1 (SUR1) subunit of the ATP‑sensitive potassium (K⁺) channel on pancreatic β‑cells. This binding closes the K⁺ channel, causing depolarisation, calcium influx, and subsequent insulin granule exocytosis. The insulin surge lowers post‑prandial glucose and contributes to overall glycaemic control. Glyburide’s onset of action is 1–2 hours after dosing, with a duration of approximately 24 hours.

When combined, metformin’s insulin‑sensitising effect reduces the amount of insulin required to achieve target glucose levels, while glyburide’s secretagogue action provides the additional insulin needed to overcome residual hyperglycaemia. The synergy can lower HbA₁c by 1–1.5 % over 3 months, compared with metformin monotherapy.

Both agents are primarily eliminated unchanged: metformin is excreted renally via tubular secretion, whereas glyburide is metabolised hepatically to inactive metabolites and eliminated by the kidneys. Renal function therefore influences dosing and safety for the combination.

Conditions Treated with Metformin + Glyburide

1. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) – The approved indication in Hong Kong. Metformin + Glyburide is indicated when metformin alone does not achieve glycaemic targets (e.g., HbA₁c ≥ 7.5 %).

2. T2DM with cardiovascular risk – Evidence from the UKPDS and CARDS trials indicates that early combination therapy improves macrovascular outcomes by achieving tighter glucose control. Hong Kong’s public health guidelines recommend combination therapy for patients with established coronary artery disease.

3. T2DM with significant β‑cell dysfunction – Glyburide is effective in patients whose insulin secretory capacity is markedly reduced, as confirmed by C‑peptide testing.

4. Off‑label: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) with insulin resistance – Metformin is widely used to improve ovulatory function in PCOS; adding glyburide may further lower insulin levels, though clinical use remains off‑label and requires physician oversight.

Epidemiologically, the Hong Kong Diabetes Registry reported over 630,000 individuals with diabetes in 2022, underscoring the public health need for accessible, effective regimens such as Metformin + Glyburide.

Who is Metformin + Glyburide For?

Metformin + Glyburide is suitable for adult patients (≥ 18 years) with T2DM who:

• Have an HbA₁c of 7.5 %–10 % after at least 3 months of metformin monotherapy.
• Exhibit inadequate post‑prandial glucose control despite metformin.
• Possess preserved β‑cell function that can respond to a sulfonylurea stimulus (assessed by fasting C‑peptide > .8 ng/mL).

Clinical scenarios that favour the combination include:

• Rapid glucose lowering needed (e.g., peri‑operative optimisation).
• Co‑existing obesity – Metformin mitigates weight gain associated with sulfonylurea therapy.

Contraindicated or non‑ideal candidates include:

• Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²) – risk of metformin accumulation and hypoglycaemia from glyburide.
• History of sulfonylurea‑induced hypoglycaemia – glyburide may precipitate dangerous events.
• Pregnant or lactating women – sulfonylureas are not recommended during pregnancy; metformin may be continued in specialist‑managed cases.

Physicians must evaluate liver function, concomitant medications, and individual hypoglycaemia risk before initiating therapy.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common adverse events

• Gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, nausea): Typically occur with metformin initiation and improve within 1–2 weeks.
• Weight gain (≈ 1–2 kg): Attributable to glyburide’s insulin‑stimulating effect.
• Mild hypoglycaemia (especially when meals are skipped or alcohol is consumed).

Rare adverse events

• Lactic acidosis (metformin‑associated): Extremely rare (< .03 %); risk increases in renal dysfunction, excessive alcohol intake, or hypoxia.
• Severe cutaneous reactions (Stevens‑Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis): Documented sporadically with sulfonylureas.

Serious adverse events

• Severe hypoglycaemia: May lead to loss of consciousness, seizures, or accidents; more likely in the elderly, renal impairment, or when combined with other hypoglycaemic agents.
• Acute kidney injury: Can precipitate metformin accumulation and glyburide toxicity, necessitating hospitalization.

Clinically relevant drug–drug interactions

Patients should disclose all over‑the‑counter, herbal, and complementary products to their healthcare provider, as these can modify drug metabolism.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

Standard dosing – In Hong Kong, the usual starting dose is one tablet (500 mg metformin + 5 mg glyburide) taken with breakfast. The dose may be titrated up to two tablets daily (morning and evening) based on glycaemic response, with a maximum of four tablets per day (totaling 2 g metformin + 20 mg glyburide). Dose adjustments are required for eGFR 30–50 mL/min/1.73 m² (reduce metformin dose; consider alternate sulfonylurea).

Missed dose – If a dose is forgotten, patients should take it as soon as they remember unless it is within 2 hours of the next scheduled dose, to avoid double dosing and hypoglycaemia. No additional tablet should be taken.

Overdose – Acute overdose of metformin can cause metabolic acidosis, while glyburide overdose raises hypoglycaemia risk. If overdose is suspected, patients should seek emergency medical assistance immediately. Supportive care includes administration of intravenous glucose for hypoglycaemia and hemodialysis for severe metformin toxicity.

Precautions –

• Food: Metformin is best taken with meals to minimise gastrointestinal side effects; glyburide absorption is not food‑dependent.
• Alcohol: Limit intake; excessive consumption increases lactic acidosis and hypoglycaemia risk.
• Renal or hepatic disease: Require dose reduction and close monitoring.

Buying Metformin + Glyburide from Our Online Pharmacy

Metformin + Glyburide can be purchased from our online pharmacy in Hong Kong. Our service offers the medication at a price close to the manufacturer’s cost, providing a genuine cost‑saving compared with retail‑pharmacy mark‑ups.

All products are sourced from licensed overseas manufacturers that hold GMP certification and are verified by the Hong Kong Department of Health’s drug‑validation programme. Quality control includes independent third‑party testing for purity, potency, and dissolution compliance.

Delivery is discreet and reliable: standard shipments arrive within 7 days via express courier, and larger orders are fulfilled by regular airmail within approximately 3 weeks. Because we act as a pharmacy‑broker service, we collaborate with internationally accredited pharmacies, enabling a privacy‑first experience that respects patient confidentiality while ensuring regulatory compliance for personal importation.

Patients who encounter limited local pharmacy stock or insurance constraints can benefit from the affordable, authentic generic option available through our online pharmacy.

FAQ

• Is Metformin + Glyburide available in both brand‑name and generic forms in Hong Kong?
  Yes. The branded product is known as Glucovance, while generic versions contain the same active ingredients at a lower price. Our online pharmacy supplies the generic formulation, which has been shown to be therapeutically equivalent by regulatory agencies.

• What is the recommended storage condition for Metformin + Glyburide?
  The tablets should be stored at room temperature (15 °C–30 °C), protected from excessive humidity, direct sunlight, and heat. A dry, sealed container is ideal; the medication is stable for at least 24 months when stored correctly.

• Does the appearance of the generic tablet differ from the brand‑name version?
  Generic tablets are typically round, bicolour (e.g., pink‑white) with imprinted "500 + 5" to indicate the dosage. Brand‑name tablets may use a different colour scheme but contain identical active substances.

• Can I travel internationally with Metformin + Glyburide, and are there any customs restrictions?
  For personal use, Hong Kong permits import of a 90‑day supply of prescription‑controlled medication, provided a copy of the prescription is retained. When travelling, keep the medication in its original packaging and carry a copy of the doctor’s letter to avoid customs delays.

• Are there any specific safety warnings for Asian populations taking Glyburide?
  Some studies suggest a higher prevalence of sulfonylurea‑related hypoglycaemia in East‑Asian patients with lower body mass index. Clinicians therefore often start at a lower glyburide dose and monitor glucose closely during dose titration.

• How does the pharmacokinetic profile of Metformin + Glyburide compare between Western and Asian markets?
  Bioavailability is not known to vary by ethnicity; however, formulations produced for Asian markets may use different excipients that affect tablet disintegration time. All approved products must meet the same pharmacokinetic standards as required by the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH).

• Is there a risk of cross‑reaction with other sulfonylureas if I am allergic to one?
  Allergic responses to sulfonylureas are rare but can involve cutaneous reactions. Since glyburide shares the sulfonylurea core, cross‑reactivity is possible. Patients with documented sulfonylurea allergy should avoid Metformin + Glyburide and discuss alternative therapies with their clinician.

• Can the medication be broken down into separate Metformin and Glyburide tablets for dose flexibility?
  The fixed‑dose combination is formulated to ensure coordinated release of both agents. Splitting the tablet into individual components is not recommended because it may disrupt the intended pharmacokinetic balance and increase the risk of hypoglycaemia.

• What are the environmental considerations for disposing of unused Metformin + Glyburide?
  Unused tablets should not be flushed into water systems. The recommended practice in Hong Kong is to return residual medication to a pharmacy for safe disposal or use the government’s household hazardous waste collection service, which neutralises active ingredients before landfill.

Glossary

Biguanide

A class of oral hypoglycaemic agents, exemplified by metformin, that primarily reduce hepatic glucose production and increase peripheral glucose uptake.

Sulfonylurea

A class of drugs, including glyburide, that stimulate pancreatic β‑cells to release insulin by binding to the SUR1 subunit of the ATP‑sensitive potassium channel.

eGFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)

A calculated measure of kidney function used to adjust dosing of renally cleared medications such as metformin and glyburide.

Lactic acidosis

A rare but serious metabolic disturbance characterized by accumulation of lactate, resulting in a pH < 7.35; associated with metformin in patients with renal insufficiency or severe hypoxia.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Metformin + Glyburide is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Metformin + Glyburide for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.