Skip to content
Glucovance

Glucovance

Metformin · Glibenclamide

Metformin and glibenclamide tablets for type 2 diabetes. The two drugs lower blood sugar by different routes, so one pill does the work of two separate ones.

Active ingredients
Metformin · Glibenclamide
Route
Oral use
Form
Tablet
Strengths
2.5mg + 400mg · 5mg + 500mg

Glucovance is the reference name. You receive a generic with the same active ingredient and strength.

No prescription needed: we place your order for Glucovance on your behalf.

Alternative names
metformin, glyburide
Therapeutic class
Sulfonylurea, Biguanide Combination
Pharmacological class
Antidiabetic Combination
Contraindications
severe renal impairment; acute metabolic acidosis; diabetic ketoacidosis
Minor side effects
diarrhoea; nausea; headache
Moderate side effects
hypoglycaemia; metallic taste; weight gain
Dosage forms
Tablet
Administration route
Oral use
Originator
Bristol-Myers Squibb
Onset Time
1–2 hours
Duration
12–24 hours
Storage instructions
Store below 25°C.
Drug interactions
Contrast Media; Alcohol; Ciprofloxacin
Age restrictions
Approved for adults.
Serious side effects

lactic acidosis, requires immediate medical attention; severe hypoglycaemia, requires immediate medical attention

Patient summary

Metformin and glibenclamide tablets for type 2 diabetes. The two drugs lower blood sugar by different routes, so one pill does the work of two separate ones.

Mechanism of action

Glyburide triggers pancreatic insulin output while metformin minimises hepatic glucose synthesis and enhances receptor sensitivity.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Avoid during pregnancy. Glycaemic control with insulin preferred. Breastfeeding: Avoid.

Is the Glucovance on Direct Meds a generic?

Yes, you receive a generic. Glucovance is the original brand, made by Bristol-Myers Squibb, and Direct Meds uses the name to identify the medicine; the generic has the same active ingredients (metformin and glibenclamide) at the strength you choose. The generic brand and manufacturer depend on available stock.

How much does Glucovance cost in South Africa?

It depends on the strength and pack. Glucovance comes in 2.5mg + 400mg and 5mg + 500mg strengths, in packs of 30 to 360 tablets, and the price of every option is shown above in rand, converted from US dollars. Larger packs cost less per tablet.

Payment and prices →

Is Glucovance sold under other names?

Glibenclamide is also known as glyburide, the name used in the United States.

What is Glucovance used for?

Glucovance contains metformin and glibenclamide, used for type 2 diabetes mellitus.

When does Glucovance start working?

Metformin and glibenclamide usually start to work within 1 to 2 hours, and their effect lasts about 12 to 24 hours. This varies from person to person.

What side effects can Glucovance cause?

The common side effects of metformin and glibenclamide are diarrhoea, nausea and headache. Less common ones include hypoglycaemia, metallic taste and weight gain. Serious but less common side effects include lactic acidosis and severe hypoglycaemia, which need urgent medical attention.

Does Glucovance interact with alcohol?

Alcohol can interact with metformin and glibenclamide, so check with a doctor or pharmacist before you drink while taking Glucovance.

What does Glucovance interact with?

Metformin and glibenclamide can interact with contrast media and ciprofloxacin. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take before you start taking Glucovance.

Do I need a prescription to buy Glucovance in South Africa?

No, not online: Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order Glucovance. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.

Ordering without a prescription →

Can I buy Glucovance online in South Africa?

Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.

How ordering works →

What you will receive

Glucovance names the medicine you are looking for. What ships is a generic version of it.

  • A generic containing Metformin / Glibenclamide at the strength you pick.
  • Which generic brand and maker ships depends on stock and destination.
  • Check the active ingredient, strength, form, pack, seal, batch and expiry when it arrives.

How we compare medicine brands and generics