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Glucovance
Glucovance Properties
About Glucovance
Generic Glucovance (glibenclamide and metformin) combines two well-established oral antidiabetic agents into a single pill, offering a convenient option for adults in Singapore who need to control blood glucose levels. Glibenclamide stimulates insulin release from pancreatic β-cells, while metformin decreases hepatic glucose production and improves peripheral insulin sensitivity. Together they address both insulin deficiency and insulin resistance, the core defects in type 2 diabetes. The combination is approved for use in patients who do not achieve adequate glycaemic control with monotherapy, and it aligns with Singapore’s national diabetes management guidelines.
What is Generic Glucovance (glibenclamide and metformin)?
Generic Glucovance (glibenclamide and metformin) is a fixed-dose combination tablet belonging to the sulfonylurea-biguanide class of antidiabetic drugs. It received registration from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) in Singapore after demonstrating comparable efficacy and safety to the reference brand. Each tablet typically contains 5 mg glibenclamide and 500 mg metformin hydrochloride, although dosage strengths may vary to suit individual therapeutic needs. The product is prescription-only, reflecting the requirement for professional oversight when initiating sulfonylurea therapy.
How Glucovance Works
Glucovance exerts its glucose-lowering effect through two complementary pathways. Glibenclamide binds to the sulfonylurea receptor on β-cells, closing ATP-sensitive potassium channels. This depolarises the cell membrane, triggers calcium influx, and ultimately promotes insulin secretion. Metformin, on the other hand, activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in the liver, suppressing gluconeogenesis and reducing hepatic glucose output. It also enhances insulin-mediated glucose uptake in skeletal muscle, improving peripheral resistance. Because the two mechanisms act at different sites, the combination produces a more pronounced and sustained reduction in fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c than either agent alone. Clinical trials report an average HbA1c decrease of 1.5-2. % after 24 weeks of therapy, with a rapid onset of action within 1-2 hours for the sulfonylurea component and a steady metabolic effect from metformin over 24-48 hours.
Why Glucovance Is Used for Diabetes Treatment
- Improved glycaemic control - The dual action targets both insulin secretion and insulin resistance, addressing the primary pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes.
- Dose simplification - One tablet replaces two separate prescriptions, enhancing adherence, especially in patients who struggle with complex regimens.
- Guideline endorsement - Singapore’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for Diabetes Mellitus list sulfonylurea-biguanide combinations as a second-line option after metformin monotherapy fails.
- Cost efficiency - Generic formulations are typically 30-40 % cheaper than brand-only alternatives, making long-term therapy more affordable.
- Comparable safety profile - Large meta-analyses (e.g., UKPDS, ADOPT) show that the incidence of severe hypoglycaemia with the combination does not exceed that of sulfonylurea monotherapy when used at recommended doses.
Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Glucovance
Evidence from small pilot studies has explored the addition of Glucovance in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who exhibit insulin resistance. One 12-week randomised trial reported modest reductions in fasting insulin and improved menstrual regularity, but the study size was limited (n = 42) and the intervention remains unapproved by the HSA. Off-label use should only be considered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.
Is Glucovance Right for You?
Glucovance suits adults with type 2 diabetes who have not reached target HbA1c on metformin alone and who do not have contraindications to sulfonylureas. Ideal candidates are individuals with preserved β-cell function and without a history of severe hypoglycaemia. Caution is advised for elderly patients, those with renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²), and pregnant or lactating women, as sulfonylureas cross the placenta. In such populations, clinicians may prefer alternative agents such as DPP-4 inhibitors or SGLT-2 inhibitors. As always, treatment decisions should be personalised and based on a thorough risk-benefit assessment.
Taking Glucovance Effectively
- Timing - Administer the tablet with breakfast or the first main meal to synchronise insulin release with post-prandial glucose spikes.
- Food interactions - A light meal reduces the risk of sulfonylurea-induced hypoglycaemia; high-fat meals may delay metformin absorption slightly but do not diminish overall efficacy.
- Missed dose - If you forget a dose and the scheduled time is within 4 hours, take it promptly. Skip it if more than 4 hours have passed to avoid nocturnal hypoglycaemia.
- Travel - Keep the medication in its original container, store at room temperature, and carry a copy of the prescription for customs clearance.
- Alcohol - Moderate consumption is permissible, but excessive intake can potentiate hypoglycaemia, especially when combined with the sulfonylurea component.
Understanding Side Effects and How to Manage Them
Common adverse events stem from the individual drugs. Glibenclamide frequently causes mild hypoglycaemia, characterised by trembling, sweating, or sudden hunger. Eating a quick-acting carbohydrate (e.g., glucose tablets) usually resolves symptoms within minutes. Metformin’s most frequent complaints are gastrointestinal-nausea, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort-often mitigated by taking the tablet with food or using an extended-release formulation. A less common but serious issue is lactic acidosis, which may present as rapid breathing, muscle pain, or abdominal fullness; this warrants immediate medical attention and is rare when renal function is normal. Regular monitoring of renal parameters and blood glucose levels helps detect problems early and adjust the regimen accordingly.
Buying Glucovance from Our Online Pharmacy
Why Choose Our Service?
Our online pharmacy bridges the gap for Singapore residents who face limited stock or high out-of-pocket costs at local dispensaries. By partnering with licensed international suppliers, we ensure that each pack of Generic Glucovance meets stringent quality standards, while offering price points that are often 30 % lower than brick-and-mortar prices.
Quality & Safety
We work exclusively with pharmacies that operate under recognised regulatory frameworks, such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). All shipments are verified for authenticity, and our fulfilment centres follow Good Distribution Practices (GDP) to preserve drug stability throughout transit.
Pricing & Access
A single 30-day supply of Generic Glucovance typically costs SGD 45-55, compared with the branded equivalent that can exceed SGD 120. Moreover, we provide a Lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders, helping you maintain consistent therapy without financial strain.
Discreet Delivery
Orders are processed within 24 hours, with express shipping arriving in approximately 7 days and standard delivery within 3 weeks. Each package is sealed in plain, tamper-evident packaging, protecting your privacy while ensuring product integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How quickly can I expect my blood sugar to improve after starting Glucovance? Most patients notice a modest reduction in fasting glucose within 1-2 weeks; the full HbA1c effect emerges after 8-12 weeks of consistent use.
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Can I take Glucovance with other diabetes medications? Yes, clinicians often combine it with DPP-4 inhibitors or SGLT-2 inhibitors for additive glucose-lowering, provided renal function is monitored.
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Is there a risk of weight gain with Glucovance? Glibenclamide can cause modest weight gain due to increased insulin levels, whereas metformin typically promotes modest weight loss; the net effect varies individually.
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What should I do if I experience persistent diarrhoea? Split the daily dose into two administrations with meals, or discuss switching to an extended-release metformin formulation with your doctor.
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Are there any dietary restrictions while on Glucovance? No specific bans, but a balanced diet low in refined sugars and saturated fats enhances medication efficacy and overall metabolic health.
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How does Glucovance compare to fixed-dose metformin-sitagliptin combos? Glucovance offers a sulfonylurea-driven insulin boost, which may achieve lower post-prandial spikes, whereas metformin-sitagliptin relies on incretin-mediated insulin release and carries a lower hypoglycaemia risk.
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Can I use Glucovance during Ramadan fasting? It is possible, but dosage timing should be adjusted to the pre-dawn and sunset meals, and glucose monitoring intensified to avoid hypoglycaemia.
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Is Glucovance safe for patients with mild liver disease? Metformin is hepatically safe; however, glibenclamide metabolism is minimal, making the combination generally acceptable in mild hepatic impairment, though liver function should be reviewed periodically.
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What is the recommended frequency of HbA1c testing while on Glucovance? Guidelines suggest measuring HbA1c every 3 months until stable, then every 6 months thereafter.
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Can I purchase Glucovance without a prescription through your platform? No. All orders require a valid prescription from a licensed practitioner to comply with Singaporean regulations.
Glossary
- Sulfonylurea
- A class of oral hypoglycaemic agents that stimulate pancreatic β-cell insulin release by closing ATP-sensitive potassium channels.
- AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)
- An intracellular energy sensor that, when activated, inhibits hepatic gluconeogenesis and enhances peripheral glucose uptake.
- HbA1c
- Glycated haemoglobin reflecting average blood glucose over the preceding 2-3 months; a key marker for long-term diabetes control.
Disclaimer
The information presented about Glucovance is intended for general educational purposes and does not substitute personalized medical advice. Any off-label application should be undertaken only under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Readers are assumed to be responsible adults capable of making informed health decisions. Our online pharmacy provides a convenient access pathway for individuals who may encounter limited availability, insurance restrictions, or cost barriers in traditional dispensing channels. Always consult your doctor before initiating, altering, or discontinuing any medication.
