Antidiabetic (Biguanide + Sulfonylurea combination)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination diabetes medicine that contains two active drugs — Metformin and Glipizide — that work together to lower blood sugar. Metformin reduces the amount of sugar your liver releases and helps your body use insulin better, while Glipizide pushes your pancreas to produce more insulin.
Inhibits hepatic glucose production by activating AMP-activated protein kinase and suppressing gluconeogenesis (metformin component), while glipizide stimulates pancreatic beta cells by blocking ATP-sensitive potassium channels, increasing endogenous insulin secretion.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Take the tablet once or twice daily with meals as your doctor prescribes, usually starting with a low dose. Always take it with food to reduce stomach upset and to help prevent your blood sugar from dropping too low. Your doctor will adjust the dose based on your blood sugar readings — do not increase the dose on your own.
If you miss a dose, take it with your next meal as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up — this can cause your blood sugar to drop dangerously low.
Always buy from a licensed pharmacy — avoid buying diabetes medicine from roadside sellers or markets, as fake drugs are common and can be dangerous. Learn to recognise signs of low blood sugar (shaking, sweating, dizziness) and always carry a small sugary snack or glucose sweet with you. Do not stop or change your dose without your doctor's approval, and attend regular check-ups to monitor your kidneys and blood sugar levels.
Avoid drinking alcohol while on this medicine as it can cause dangerously low blood sugar or increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Be careful if you are also taking blood pressure medicines like lisinopril or atenolol, as they can mask signs of low blood sugar. NSAIDs (painkillers like ibuprofen or diclofenac) may affect how well this medicine works and should be used with caution.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Metformin with your other drugs?
This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding — if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor immediately for a safer alternative.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep it in its original container with the lid tightly closed, and always keep it out of the reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.