Glifor

Glifor contains metformin hydrochloride, one of the most commonly prescribed medicines for type 2 diabetes. It helps reduce the production of glucose in the liver and improves the body’s response to insulin. Unlike some other diabetes medicines, it does not usually cause weight gain or very low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Glifor is used as a first-line treatment along with diet control and exercise, and it may be combined with other antidiabetic medicines if needed.

Primary Uses

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus

• Improves blood sugar control in adults and adolescents

• May help reduce the risk of diabetes complications (kidney, eye, and nerve damage)

• Sometimes prescribed in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to regulate menstrual cycles and improve insulin resistance

How to Use

• Take by mouth with meals to reduce stomach upset.

• Swallow whole with water; do not crush or chew.

• Usually started at a low dose and gradually increased to reduce side effects.

• Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent effect.

• Always follow your doctor’s prescribed dose.

Side Effects
Common side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach upset (especially at the start)

• Metallic taste in mouth

• Loss of appetite

• Rare but serious: lactic acidosis (symptoms include muscle pain, breathing difficulty, dizziness, severe weakness)

Warnings and Precautions

• Not recommended in severe kidney or liver disease.

• Avoid alcohol as it increases the risk of lactic acidosis.

• Inform your doctor if you are undergoing surgery or medical imaging with contrast dye — metformin may need to be stopped temporarily.

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should only use under medical advice.

• Regular monitoring of blood sugar and Vitamin B12 levels is advised in long-term use.

Contraindications
Do not use Glifor if you have:

• Severe kidney impairment

• Severe liver disease

• Diabetic ketoacidosis

• Severe infection, dehydration, or shock

• Allergy to metformin or any tablet ingredient

FAQS

• Can Glifor cause low blood sugar?
  Not usually on its own, but risk increases if used with other diabetes medicines or insulin.

• What if I miss a dose?
  Take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s almost time for the next dose. Do not double dose.

• Can Glifor help in weight loss?
  Some patients may lose weight due to improved metabolism, but it is not a weight-loss medicine.

• Is it safe in pregnancy?
  It is sometimes used during pregnancy under doctor’s advice, but insulin may be preferred.

• Can Glifor be used for PCOS?
  Yes, it is often prescribed to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate cycles in PCOS.

Storage
Store at room temperature, away from direct light, moisture, and heat. Keep out of children’s reach.

Doctor’s Review, Dr. Salman Javed – Consultant Endocrinologist

“Glifor (Metformin) is a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes. It lowers blood sugar effectively without causing weight gain and is generally well tolerated. Stomach-related side effects can be reduced by starting with a low dose. Patients should avoid alcohol and be aware of the rare risk of lactic acidosis.”

Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. It is not a prescription. Always consult a qualified doctor before starting or stopping any medicine.