Glucovance (Glyburide/Metformin) for Diabetes

Overview
Glucovance is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help improve blood glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Glucovance is considered an adjunct treatment to diet and exercise.

Glucovance is a combination drug composed of the drugs Glyburide, the active ingredient in DiaBeta, and Metformin. Metformin is a biguanide. Metformin is believed to work by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and making the muscle tissue more sensitive to insulin. Glyburide is a sulfonylurea. Glyburide is believed to work by increasing the amount of insulin released by the pancreas.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Glucovance is generally taken twice daily with the morning and evening meals.

Glucovance comes in tablet form.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Glucovance lists common side effects including diarrhea, nausea, gas, stomach pain, cold symptoms, weight gain, and upset stomach.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Glucovance include lactic acidosis (when the tissues and blood become too acidic) and systemic allergic reaction.

For answers to frequently asked questions about exposure to Metformin during pregnancy and breastfeeding, visit the experts at MothertoBaby.org.