Important information about Diabex (metformin)
Diabex (metformin) may be prescribed as an oral diabetic medication to patients managing their blood sugar.
In this article, we’ve compiled some key information about metformin’s role in glucose regulation and insulin management so you are informed when discussing with your doctor.
In this article
1. How does Diabex (metformin) work?
Acting as a biguanide, Diabex pills typically work to enhance the body’s response to insulin and reduce unwanted blood glucose levels. It lowers those levels by facilitating the body’s more efficient use of the insulin produced by the pancreas.[1]
This diabetes medication may act through several mechanisms: decreasing the liver’s glucose production, boosting insulin sensitivity in muscles to improve glucose uptake, and slowing down glucose absorption in the intestines.[2]
2. How do you take Diabex (metformin)?
Metformin or Diabex dosage varies individually, and a doctor will decide the right dose for a patient’s needs. Dosages may either increase or decrease over time, depending on one’s blood sugar levels.
For adult patients, metformin may be used as initial treatment or when sulfonylurea fails, either: on its own; combined with sulfonylurea and other oral agents; or as an adjuvant therapy in insulin-requiring type 2 diabetes.[3] Always read the label and use your diabetes control medications only as directed to support your journey towards better health management.
3. Who can take Diabex (metformin)?
Diabex may be prescribed as a type 2 diabetes treatment pill for adults, children over ten, and adolescents, particularly when lifestyle changes don’t suffice for proper blood sugar control.[4]
However, diabetic treatments may not be prescribed to patients in some cases.
Patients who are managing conditions like type 1 diabetes with insulin, or type 2 diabetes through diet alone, may be asked not to take this medication. Furthermore, it may not be suitable for individuals with any form of metabolic acidosis, such as lactic acidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis, severe liver issues, or significant kidney dysfunction.
The same is true for those dealing with severe dehydration, recent significant blood loss, or are recovering from major surgery or certain heart conditions. Finally, patients with a history of alcohol dependence, experiencing severe infections, or having conditions like pancreatitis or blood clots in the lungs may also be directed to other treatment plans by a doctor.[5]
If you’re expecting surgery, an X-ray, or diagnostic exams that require an injection of iodinated contrast or dye, a doctor may ask you to pause treatment. If you’re pregnant, it’s important to exercise caution and discuss with your doctor before taking the medication. Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and discuss any concerns regarding your treatment plan.[6]
4. Side effects of Diabex (metformin)
Individuals taking Diabex (metformin) may experience gastrointestinal discomfort such as an upset stomach, bloating, cramping, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Those who encounter these side effects might be asked to integrate the medication with meals to potentially alleviate stomach discomfort. Additionally, up to 30% of those taking Diabex might face a reduction in vitamin B12 levels.[7]
Allergic reactions to this medication, such as skin rash, swelling, or breathing difficulties, are urgent health concerns requiring prompt action.[8] Always communicate openly with your doctor about any side effects you experience from diabetic drugs or any medications.
5. Diabex (metformin) and other medications
Certain combinations can increase the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare and serious side effect of taking metformin. Drugs such as bupropion, certain antibiotics like cephalexin, and medications for other conditions, including dolutegravir and topiramate, are notable for their potential to affect Diabex (metformin)’s safety and effectiveness.[9]
Additionally, other substances, including androgens, alpha-lipoic acid, and various types of medication like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and other antidiabetic agents, may enhance metformin’s hypoglycemic effects. Your doctor may monitor your treatment more closely when Diabex is used in conjunction with these drugs.[10]
6. Medicines you should not use with Diabex (metformin)
This medication is reported not to be suitable for individuals with severe renal dysfunction, people with serum creatinine reaching certain levels, or those with abnormal creatinine clearance. A doctor may ask one to avoid any medications that could further harm the kidneys while on this treatment.[11]
Moreover, Diabex (metformin) may be asked to be paused on the day of any surgical procedure. Other important contraindications include a known hypersensitivity to metformin or an existing metabolic acidosis.[12]
7. How to order Diabex (metformin) through Chemist2U
Chemist2U makes getting prescription medications and pharmacy essentials as easy as clicking a few buttons. Getting started is as easy as downloading our app or using this website, where you can quickly upload your eScript.
After uploading your prescriptions online, you can browse through our virtual shelves. These are filled with a broad range of over-the-counter medication and general pharmacy products, allowing you to add the items you would typically find in a physical pharmacy.
Once you’ve made your choices, a trusted pharmacist from a partner pharmacy in your community will take care of your order. If you have general questions about diabetic drugs or other brands aside from Diabex, like Diaformin (metformin), then our Ask a Pharmacist feature can provide general pharmacy advice.
Same-day delivery is available with the majority of medications. Order before the cutoff for same-day delivery directly from the chemist to your doorstep. Note that a minority of products (including Ozempic and Mounjaro) are delivered via Australia Post. Allow five to seven business days for these medications.
Our customer service team is available to assist with any order-related concerns. You can also get handy reminders when it’s time to reorder. This way, you always have your important medication when you need it.
Say goodbye to your search for ‘chemist near me’, ‘pharmacy online’, or ‘24 hour pharmacy’ and experience the ease of managing your medication needs with us. Order home delivery of your medications with Chemist2U today.
References
[1] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/768e6126-a455-43b7-af4d-a53300feed70.pdf
[2] https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/blog/meet-metformin/
[3] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines/brand/amt,24861000168103/diabex
[4] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines/brand/amt,24861000168103/diabex
[5] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/768e6126-a455-43b7-af4d-a53300feed70.pdf
[6] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/768e6126-a455-43b7-af4d-a53300feed70.pdf
[7] https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/blog/meet-metformin/
[8] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/768e6126-a455-43b7-af4d-a53300feed70.pdf
[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK518983/
[10] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK518983/
