Diabetes Medication Comparison Tool
This tool helps compare key features of various diabetes medications including Glycomet SR and alternatives. Select a drug class and filter by cost to see detailed comparisons.
- Glycomet SR: Once-daily sustained-release metformin with moderate tablet size
- Glucophage XR: Larger tablet size, slightly faster release
- Fortamet: Medium-large tablet size
- Generic Metformin SR: Most affordable option
- SGLT2 Inhibitors: Weight loss benefit, potential UTI risk
- GLP-1 Agonists: Significant weight loss, nausea risk
- DPP-4 Inhibitors: Neutral weight impact, mild side effects
- Thiazolidinediones: Weight gain, edema risk
Key Takeaways
- Glycomet SR is a sustained‑release form of metformin that offers once‑daily dosing with similar glucose‑lowering power to other metformin brands.
- When you stack it up against other metformin SR products (Glucophage XR, Fortamet, generic SR), the main differences are price, tablet size and the exact release profile.
- Immediate‑release metformin works just as well but usually requires twice‑daily dosing and can cause more GI upset.
- For patients who can’t tolerate metformin, the leading alternatives are SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP‑1 receptor agonists, DPP‑4 inhibitors and thiazolidinediones, each with its own trade‑offs.
- Choosing the right drug hinges on three factors: cardiovascular risk, weight goals, and how your stomach reacts to the medication.
What is Glycomet SR?
When you see the name Glycomet SR is a sustained‑release (extended‑release) tablet of metformin, the first‑line drug for type‑2 diabetes. The “SR” stands for “slow‑release”, meaning the tablet dissolves gradually over about 12‑14 hours, delivering a steadier blood level of the drug.
Key attributes of Glycomet SR:
- Available strengths: 500mg, 850mg, 1000mg per tablet.
- Typical dosing: one tablet once daily with the evening meal.
- Pharmacokinetics: peak plasma concentration at ~7hours, half‑life ~6hours.
- Regulatory status: approved by the New Zealand Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Authority (Medsafe) and widely prescribed in Australia and the UK.
How Glycomet SR Works
Metformin belongs to the biguanide class. Its primary actions are:
- Reducing hepatic glucose production (gluconeogenesis).
- Increasing insulin sensitivity in muscle and fat tissue.
- Lowering intestinal absorption of glucose.
Because Glycomet SR releases the drug slowly, it minimizes the rapid spike in the gut that often triggers nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal cramping-common side effects of the immediate‑release form.
Metformin Landscape: Immediate‑Release vs. Sustained‑Release
Metformin comes in two main formulations:
- Immediate‑release metformin (usually 500mg tablets, taken twice or three times daily).
- Sustained‑release metformin (SR or XR), taken once daily.
The therapeutic effect is essentially the same-both lower HbA1c by 1‑2percentage points-but the SR version offers better adherence and often fewer GI complaints.
Comparing Glycomet SR with Other Metformin SR Brands
| Brand | Manufacturer | Available Strengths | Typical Cost (NZD per 30 tablets) | Tablet Size / Swallowability | Release Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glycomet SR | Pharma Ltd. | 500mg, 850mg, 1000mg | $28 | Medium, slightly larger than IR tablets | 12‑14h steady release |
| Glucophage XR | Novartis | 500mg, 750mg, 1000mg | $32 | Large, may require water | 10‑12h, slightly faster initial release |
| Fortamet | Ironwood Pharmaceuticals | 500mg, 1000mg | $30 | Medium‑large | 12h, marketed as “extended‑release” |
| Generic Metformin SR | Various (e.g., Sun Pharma, Mylan) | 500mg, 850mg, 1000mg | $22 | Variable, often smaller tablets | 12‑14h, bioequivalent to brand‑name SR |
In practice, the efficacy gap among these brands is negligible. Price and tablet size tend to drive the choice. If you struggle with swallowing a large tablet, Glycomet SR’s medium size makes it a friendly option.
When Metformin Isn’t Enough: Major Alternatives
If you experience persistent GI side effects, have severe renal impairment, or need extra cardiovascular protection, doctors often add or switch to a different drug class. Below is a snapshot of the most common alternatives as of 2025.
| Class | Representative Drugs (2025) | Typical Dose Frequency | Weight Effect | Cardiovascular Benefit | Common Side Effects | Average Cost NZD/30 days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SGLT2 inhibitors | Dapagliflozin, Empagliflozin, Ertugliflozin | Once daily | Modest weight loss (≈2‑3kg) | Reduced heart‑failure hospitalization, renal protection | UTI, genital mycotic infection, dehydration | $60‑$85 |
| GLP‑1 receptor agonists | Liraglutide, Semaglutide, Dulaglutide | Weekly (except liraglutide - daily) | Significant weight loss (≈5‑10kg) | Reduced major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) | Nausea, vomiting, possible pancreatitis | $120‑$170 |
| DPP‑4 inhibitors | Sitagliptin, Saxagliptin, Linagliptin | Once daily | Weight neutral | Neutral cardiovascular profile | Upper‑respiratory infection, headache | $45‑$65 |
| Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) | Pioglitazone, Lobeglitazone | Once daily | Weight gain (≈2‑4kg) | Potential reduction in stroke risk | Edema, risk of heart failure, bone fractures | $30‑$45 |
Each class talks to a different physiological pathway. Your doctor will weigh factors like existing heart disease, kidney function, and how much weight you’d like to lose.
Decision Guide: When to Stick with Glycomet SR and When to Switch
Use the checklist below to see where Glycomet SR fits your situation.
- Good glycemic control but occasional GI upset? Try splitting the dose (e.g., 500mg + 500mg) or switch to another SR brand with a smaller tablet.
- Renal function eGFR < 30mL/min/1.73m²? Metformin (any form) is contraindicated - consider an SGLT2 inhibitor (if eGFR≥45) or a DPP‑4 inhibitor.
- Need weight loss? GLP‑1 agonists outperform metformin; adding semaglutide can shave 5‑10kg.
- High cardiovascular risk (prior MI, heart failure)? Empagliflozin or dapagliflozin give proven heart‑failure benefits beyond metformin.
- Cost is the main driver? Generic metformin SR or immediate‑release tablets are the cheapest option; many NZ pharmacies offer subsidised plans.
Remember, most patients stay on metformin (or its SR version) as the backbone therapy and add another agent only if targets aren’t met after 3‑6 months.
Practical Tips for Using Glycomet SR
- Take the tablet with your biggest meal of the day to reduce stomach irritation.
- Never crush or chew - the coating controls the slow release.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the next dose; then skip and resume regular schedule.
- Monitor kidney function every 6‑12 months; metformin accumulates when eGFR drops.
- Pair with a balanced diet and regular activity; metformin works best when lifestyle supports it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Glycomet SR better than regular metformin?
“Better” depends on what you value. Glycomet SR offers once‑daily dosing and tends to cause fewer GI complaints, but its glucose‑lowering effect is the same as immediate‑release metformin. If you can tolerate twice‑daily dosing, the cheaper IR version works just as well.
Can I switch from Glycomet SR to another SR brand without a doctor’s visit?
No. Although the drugs are bioequivalent, dosage strength, tablet size, and insurance coverage can differ. Always get a prescription change from your healthcare provider.
What is the biggest side effect of metformin SR?
Gastro‑intestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal bloating). The SR formulation reduces this risk, but it can still occur, especially at higher doses.
Are SGLT2 inhibitors safe for people with a history of urinary infections?
They increase glucose in the urine, which can raise infection risk. If you’ve had recurrent UTIs, discuss alternatives (like GLP‑1 agonists) with your doctor.
How much does Glycomet SR cost compared with other options?
In 2025, a 30‑tablet supply of Glycomet SR runs about NZD28, while generic SR versions can be as low as NZD22. Immediate‑release metformin tablets are roughly NZD18‑20 for the same quantity.
Carlise Pretorius
October 5, 2025 AT 14:41I think the medium size tablet is actually kinda comfy to swallow