Glucophage Unidie (Metformin Hydrochloride)

Glucophage Unidie is indicated for the long‑term management of hyperglycaemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, typically as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes diet and exercise.

• Used as monotherapy when diet and exercise alone do not achieve glycaemic targets.
• Combined with other oral antidiabetic agents to improve overall glucose control.
• May be prescribed when insulin therapy is not yet required.
• Helps reduce hepatic glucose production and improve peripheral insulin sensitivity.
• Often selected for patients who need a weight‑neutral antidiabetic option.

The safety profile of Glucophage Unidie reflects the typical effects observed with metformin therapy.

Common

• Nausea, abdominal discomfort, or diarrhoea.
• Metallic taste in the mouth.
• Decreased appetite.
• Mild skin rash or itching.

Serious

• Lactic acidosis, a rare but potentially fatal metabolic complication.
• Severe vitamin B12 deficiency leading to neuropathy.
• Unexplained severe hypoglycaemia when combined with other glucose‑lowering agents.

When prescribing Glucophage Unidie, clinicians consider several safety factors to minimise risk.

• Assess renal function before initiation and periodically thereafter.
• Avoid use in patients with acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Monitor for signs of lactic acidosis, especially after major surgery or contrast imaging.
• Evaluate vitamin B12 levels during long‑term therapy.
• Use with caution in elderly patients or those with hepatic impairment.
• Discontinue before any radiographic studies that use iodinated contrast agents.

Glucophage Unidie can interact with a variety of medicines, influencing its efficacy or safety.

Avoid

• Iodinated contrast media used in imaging studies.
• Cimetidine, which can increase metformin plasma concentrations.
• Certain antiretroviral drugs (e.g., didanosine) that may raise the risk of lactic acidosis.

Use with caution

• Other antidiabetic agents that may cause hypoglycaemia (e.g., sulfonylureas, insulin).
• Diuretics that affect renal function.
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs that can alter kidney perfusion.
• Alcohol, which may increase the risk of lactic acidosis.