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Glucovance (GLYE-byoor-ide and met-FOR-min ) combination is used to treat high blood sugar levels that are caused by a type of diabetes mellitus or sugar diabetes called type 2 diabetes. Normally, after you eat, your pancreas releases insulin to help your body store excess sugar for later use. This process occurs during normal digestion of food. In type 2 diabetes, your body does not work properly to store the excess sugar and the sugar remains in your bloodstream. Chronic high blood sugar can lead to serious health problems in the future. Proper diet is the first step in managing type 2 diabetes but often medicines are needed to help your body. With two actions, the combination of Glucovance helps your body cope with high blood sugar. Glyburide stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreas, directing your body to store blood sugar. Metformin has three different actions: it slows the absorption of sugar in your small intestine; it also stops your liver from converting stored sugar into blood sugar; and it helps your body use your natural insulin more efficiently. Glucovance is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form: Oral Tablets (U.S.)
The combination of Glucovance is used to treat type 2 (noninsulin-dependent) diabetes (formerly called 'adult-onset') in people whose diabetes cannot be controlled by diet and exercise alone. Glyburide belongs to a class of drugs called sulfonylureas, and metformin is in a class of drugs called biguanides. Glyburide lowers blood sugar by stimulating the pancreas, the organ that makes insulin. Insulin helps control blood sugar levels. The pancreas must produce insulin for Glucovance to work. Metformin helps your body regulate the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. It decreases the amount of glucose you get from your diet and the amount made by your liver. It also helps your body use its own insulin more effectively. Glucovance are not used to treat type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes (formerly called 'juvenile-onset'). Glucovance combination comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken one to two times daily with meals. Your doctor may gradually increase your dose, depending on your response to Glucovance. Monitor your blood glucose closely. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Glucovance exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Glucovance combination controls diabetes but does not cure it. Continue to take Glucovance even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Glucovance without talking to your doctor. Brand names: - Glucovance - Glyburide and Metformin |