WeiYi

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of WeiYi

What Type of Medicine is WeiYi?

WeiYi is a fixed-dose combination (FDC) oral antihyperglycemic agent used for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. This prescription-only medication is a synthetic compound formulated as a single tablet. The core identity of WeiYi lies in its FDC status, which is a therapeutic strategy designed to enhance glycemic control and simplify the patient’s regimen compared to taking two separate medications.

Composition and Pharmacological Class of WeiYi

WeiYi belongs to the pharmacological class of Antidiabetic Combinations, specifically integrating the agents Glibenclamide (a sulfonylurea) and Metformin Hydrochloride (a biguanide). This particular pairing is utilized as a second-line option when monotherapy is insufficient for blood sugar management. The combination is distinguished by its dual composition, where the sulfonylurea component stimulates insulin release, while the biguanide component primarily reduces the liver's production of new glucose.

General Purpose and Synergistic Benefit

The general purpose of WeiYi is to achieve and sustain effective glycemic control for adults whose high blood sugar levels are inadequately managed by therapy with a single agent. The synergistic benefit of combining Glibenclamide and Metformin Hydrochloride allows the medication to target both insulin deficiency and insulin resistance simultaneously. This comprehensive approach is typically employed in scenarios where a patient requires a more intensive regimen to maintain blood sugar stability and manage their chronic condition effectively.

Regulatory References

  1. MedlinePlus

What side effects are possible with WeiYi?

WeiYi, a product containing Yunnan Baiyao capsules, is generally associated with a low incidence of adverse reactions, with most reported effects being mild and non-life-threatening. However, users should be aware of the potential for side effects and certain safety considerations.

Common Side Effects

Adverse reactions most frequently affect the digestive system and skin. Common reported adverse drug reactions (ADRs) include:

System Affected Common Adverse Reactions
Gastrointestinal Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach discomfort, abdominal pain, flatulence
Dermatological Rash, itching, urticaria (hives)

These effects are typically transient and mild.


Serious Adverse Events and Safety Warnings

Although rare, more serious adverse events have been reported. These may include signs of a systemic allergic reaction such as chest tightness or allergic shock. Severe pain in the upper abdomen that may radiate to the back, potentially with vomiting, should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately as this could be a sign of a serious condition.

Contraindications and Drug Interactions

WeiYi is generally contraindicated during pregnancy and in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to any of its components. Due to its potential effect on blood coagulation, caution is advised when using this product concurrently with anticoagulant (blood-thinning) or antiplatelet medications. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and dietary supplements they are taking to assess the risk of potential drug-drug interactions.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose with this fixed-dose combination medication involves the potential for two distinct, severe metabolic events documented in regulatory information.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

The Glibenclamide component introduces the risk of life-threatening hypoglycaemia, which may escalate to severe neurological signs, including seizures or hypoglycaemic coma. Immediate hospitalization is officially mandated for severe hypoglycaemic reactions.

The Metformin component carries the primary risk of Metformin-Associated Lactic Acidosis (MALA), a serious metabolic complication. Lactic acidosis may present initially with nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, myalgias, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal pain. If MALA is suspected, regulatory authorities require the immediate discontinuation of the medicine.

Required Emergency Actions

Urgent medical attention is required for any suspected overdose or when signs of either severe hypoglycemia or lactic acidosis appear. Management involves specialized supportive measures as officially described. This includes the rapid intravenous injection of glucose for severe hypoglycemia or prompt hemodialysis to remove accumulated Metformin in cases of severe lactic acidosis. No specific antidotes are documented as being available for MALA. Monitoring of blood pH, lactate levels, and renal function is necessary in a hospital setting. Elderly subjects and patients with renal impairment are documented as having an increased risk for these severe outcomes.

Therapeutic Uses of WeiYi

What WeiYi treats: main uses and benefits

WeiYi is used to offer focused, short-term symptomatic support across key therapeutic domains. Its role is to provide symptomatic support and to help manage the overall symptom load during periods of heightened discomfort. The focus of this medication is on providing symptomatic support, a therapeutic domain distinct from curative or disease-modifying treatments. This approach to treatment is focused on addressing manifestations of a condition rather than the underlying cause.


This medication is generally applicable in contexts where additional support is needed to address symptoms that may interfere with daily comfort, particularly when symptoms become intense or disruptive. It is commonly used for managing acute symptom clusters associated with heightened physiological activity, and for providing supportive relief in conditions characterized by episodic or fluctuating manifestations.

“It is relevant for easing distress when symptoms interfere with routine activities, and contributes to improved comfort during difficult episodes.”

It helps address groups of symptoms that may become temporarily overwhelming, and is relevant in situations requiring short-term symptomatic assistance.

Quick Fact: Relief for Acute Discomfort
This medication is applied in scenarios where additional management of discomfort may be needed during acute symptomatic episodes.

Regulatory References

  1. such as the European Medicines Agency regulatory guidance

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

WeiYi, a fixed-dose combination of Glibenclamide and Metformin, is officially eligible only for adults (18 years and above) with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus whose condition is inadequately managed by a single agent.

Absolute Contraindications

The medication is contraindicated (must never be used) in patients with specific conditions, primarily those that increase the risk of severe complications like Lactic Acidosis or profound Hypoglycemia. These include:

  • Severe renal impairment (eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m^2)
  • Known hypersensitivity to Metformin, Glibenclamide, other sulfonylureas, or sulfonamides
  • Type 1 diabetes or metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis)
  • Acute conditions such as severe infection, dehydration, or acute alcohol intoxication

Age and Physiological Restrictions

Population Category Eligibility Status (Regulatory Wording)
Pediatric Patients (Under 18) Safety and efficacy have not been established; not recommended
Pregnancy Contraindicated; use must be discontinued
Breastfeeding Contraindicated
Hepatic Impairment Not recommended or use should be avoided
Geriatric Patients Requires more frequent assessment of renal function

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

WeiYi, a combination of glibenclamide and metformin, has officially documented interaction constraints across several categories as defined by regulatory bodies.

Formal Contraindicated Combinations

Co-administration is strictly prohibited with Miconazole (systemic or oromucosal gel) due to the risk of severe potentiation of the hypoglycaemic effect. The combination with Bosentan is also contraindicated due to observed liver enzyme elevations. The use of Iodinated Contrast Media requires mandatory discontinuation of WeiYi at the time of or prior to the procedure due to the risk of Metformin-associated Lactic Acidosis (MALA).

Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Effects

  • Exposure-Altering Agents: Drugs that reduce metformin clearance, such as Cimetidine, Ranolazine, and Vandetanib, compete for renal transporters (e.g., OCT2), increasing metformin's plasma concentration. Conversely, Colesevelam reduces glibenclamide absorption, requiring administration separation.
  • Hypoglycaemia Modifiers: Pharmacodynamic interactions occur with numerous agents. Drugs like ACE inhibitors and Coumarin derivatives may potentiate the glucose-lowering effect, while Corticosteroids or Diuretics may weaken it, as documented in labeling. Acidic drugs like Salicylates may displace glibenclamide from protein binding.

Non-Medicinal Substance and Procedural Constraints

Alcohol consumption is restricted due to the combined risk of lactic acidosis and a severe hypoglycaemic reaction. Furthermore, WeiYi must be discontinued for 48 hours before and after surgery involving general, spinal, or epidural anaesthesia, provided renal function is stable before restarting. These restrictions define the formal limits of co-administration.

Mechanism of Action

WeiYi is a novel synthetic peptide that functions as a transient agonist of the parathyroid hormone receptor 1 (PTH1R) with high affinity. The pharmacodynamic mechanism is mediated by this binding, which initiates a Gs-protein coupled signaling cascade leading to receptor internalization and cAMP modulation. In osteoblastic lineage cells, the signaling increases PKA activation, upregulating the transcription of IHH (Indian Hedgehog) and RUNX2 (Runt-related transcription factor 2). This cellular activity promotes the differentiation and proliferation of osteoblasts, resulting in increased bone matrix deposition. Simultaneously, the cascade modulates the expression of RANKL, which impacts the signaling required for osteoclast differentiation and activity. The overall physiological consequence is a shift in the bone remodeling balance, characterized by increased bone formation and transiently decreased bone resorption, restricted to the specific modulation of the PTH1R pathway.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to use WeiYi

WeiYi is an oral medication administered exclusively by mouth. Its administration involves taking the tablets with meals to optimize drug absorption and enhance gastrointestinal tolerance. This approach involves adherence to a regular meal schedule as part of the overall treatment plan. The fixed-dose combination tablets must be swallowed whole and are not intended to be split or crushed.

Dosing begins using the lowest available strength, typically 1.25 mg Glibenclamide / 250 mg Metformin, and follows a titration schedule. Adjustments to the dose are made gradually over intervals of two weeks or longer. The maximum daily limit for the combination is 20 mg Glibenclamide / 2000 mg Metformin Hydrochloride. Administration frequency is usually scheduled once or twice daily.

Specific provisions exist for administration in certain clinical scenarios and patient groups. For older adults, a reduced starting dose is utilized, with the continuing regimen adapted based on the individual's renal function. Furthermore, the medicine is temporarily discontinued before specific medical procedures, such as diagnostic imaging using iodinated contrast material or major surgery. Resumption of therapy is conditional on laboratory confirmation that renal function remains adequate. Use is generally avoided in individuals with hepatic disease.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for WeiYi

WeiYi is a fixed-dose tablet that combines two active components, Glibenclamide and Metformin, and was studied for its role in managing blood sugar levels in adults diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. The information below describes the research that has been conducted and what the studies monitored, without providing clinical advice or treatment recommendations.


Evidence for Glycemic Control in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes

The core evidence base for WeiYi includes Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews that have been conducted to analyze findings from multiple clinical studies. These trials were primarily used in research exploring how blood sugar control outcomes change over defined time intervals. The research generally included adults whose blood sugar control was assessed as insufficient while using a single diabetes medicine alone.

Studies report patterns observed with the dual therapy where measurements of HbA1c values were observed when compared to the use of Metformin or Glibenclamide alone in the observed populations. Research highlights changes measured during the study period, indicating that the use of the combination was associated with observed participant progress toward study targets for blood sugar concentration.


Comparison of Combination Treatment to Single-Agent Therapy

Studies explored the effects of receiving both active components in a single tablet. The strategy of combining these two medicines was studied to explore whether targeting two different mechanisms of blood sugar control was associated with specific outcomes. The data show patterns related to changes in HbA1c measurements when the combination was used, compared to findings from studies of the individual components.


Understanding Research Gaps and Limitations

A key limitation is that long-term outcomes are not fully established that measure impact on serious diabetes complications (such as heart attack or stroke) within the core efficacy trials. Additionally, research describes the logistical challenge arising from the fixed-dose design of the medicine; this means the amount of each component cannot be adjusted separately, which is a finding related to dose administration compared to taking the two components individually.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about WeiYi (FAQ)


Q: Is WeiYi a long-term medication or something taken only for a short time?

A: The official product information indicates that this medicine is used as part of a treatment plan for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, which is a chronic condition. Therefore, it is described in official documents as generally intended for chronic use.

Q: How quickly should a person expect to see initial changes after starting WeiYi?

A: Studies on the Metformin component show that drug levels in the blood typically reach a consistent state within 24 to 48 hours. However, achieving the full therapeutic effect on blood sugar management is generally assessed after two to three months.

Q: Is it possible for WeiYi to stop working after a person has been taking it for a long time?

A: Regulatory documents mention that the blood sugar-lowering effect of the sulfonylurea component may continue with chronic administration. However, official information notes the potential for a gradual decline in the insulin-releasing response over time for this type of medication.

Q: Can WeiYi affect a person's mood or sleep patterns?

A: Adverse effects that have been reported with this medicine include dizziness and headache. Official information also notes nervousness as a potential side effect, and these reactions, based on official labeling, may be experienced by some users.

Q: What is the difference between a common side effect and a serious side effect of WeiYi?

A: Official labeling organizes reported adverse reactions based on their frequency and their clinical consequences. Common side effects are those that occur frequently and are typically mild, such as stomach issues. Serious adverse events are those that are rare but carry a risk of severe outcomes, such as Lactic Acidosis or severe allergic shock.

Q: Are there any common over-the-counter medicines that interact with WeiYi?

A: Official government drug information describes potential interactions with certain common over-the-counter products. These include Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, as well as some salicylate pain relievers.

Q: Is it true that WeiYi can interact with grapefruit or grapefruit juice?

A: Drug interaction studies indicate that grapefruit does not typically interact with the Metformin component of the medicine. The drug is primarily eliminated unchanged by the kidneys, and official sources generally do not cite this as a significant drug interaction concern.

Q: Is WeiYi safe to use for older adults (seniors)?

A: Official guidance indicates that use in older adults necessitates close observation and often involves a lower starting dose. This approach is recommended due to potential age-related changes in kidney function, which can affect the drug's action.

Q: Can WeiYi be taken by younger adults (under 18) if a healthcare provider prescribes it?

A: Official documentation is clear that the safety and efficacy in pediatric patients (individuals under 18 years of age) have not been established. Because of this, the medicine is formally not recommended for use in this population.

Q: What happens if a person forgets to take a dose of WeiYi?

A: Official patient instructions advise against taking two doses the same day to make up for a missed dose. The recommendation is to take the usual dose with the next scheduled meal.

Q: Will I need to get regular blood tests while taking WeiYi?

A: The official protocol includes the requirement to assess renal function using laboratory tests prior to starting therapy and periodically thereafter. This assessment is required periodically, as kidney health is relevant to the metabolism of the Metformin component.

Q: Are the generic and brand-name versions of WeiYi considered equally effective?

A: WeiYi is available in a generic fixed-dose combination. The FDA requires that generic products meet bioequivalence standards—meaning they must deliver the same amount of active drug into the bloodstream—to be considered substitutable for the brand-name version.

Q: Is WeiYi associated with weight gain or weight loss?

A: Clinical data on the individual components suggests two different patterns. The Glibenclamide component is often associated with weight gain, while the Metformin component is often linked to weight-neutrality or modest weight loss. The overall effect is described in research as varying by individual.

Q: What is the current understanding of the long-term effects of using WeiYi for several years?

A: Official regulatory documents indicate that a key limitation in the core efficacy trials is that long-term outcomes are not fully established regarding the medicine’s ultimate impact on serious diabetes complications, such as heart attack or stroke.

Q: Does taking WeiYi mean I need to change my diet (other than avoiding specific foods)?

A: Official product information describes the medicine as an adjunct to diet and exercise. This confirms that a healthy eating and exercise plan are formally considered essential components of the overall treatment plan.

Q: Does WeiYi have a risk of dependency or addiction?

A: No. WeiYi, as a combination of Glibenclamide and Metformin, is a medicine used for chronic disease management and is not classified as a controlled substance under government regulations.

Q: Is WeiYi safe for people who have liver problems?

A: Official warnings state that the use of this medicine is generally avoided in patients with any clinical or laboratory evidence of hepatic disease (liver problems). This is linked to the increased risk of Lactic Acidosis.

Q: Is WeiYi safe for people who have kidney problems?

A: The medicine is contraindicated (must not be used) in patients with severe renal impairment (low eGFR). Official guidance states the benefit-risk is assessed when considering initiation in a certain range of moderate impairment.

Q: Does WeiYi cause drowsiness or affect a person's ability to drive?

A: Reported side effects include dizziness and drowsiness. Official patient information advises caution when performing activities that require concentration, such as driving or operating heavy machinery.

Q: What is the official information regarding WeiYi and its use for people with heart conditions?

A: Regulatory documents state that the medicine is contraindicated in acute, unstable heart failure or recent heart attack. However, it may be used in patients with stable chronic heart failure provided there is regular monitoring of their condition.

Q: Why is WeiYi not suitable for people with certain pre-existing medical conditions?

A: The restrictions are primarily in place due to the risk of two severe complications: Lactic Acidosis (from the Metformin component) and profound Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar, from the Glibenclamide component).

Q: Is it normal to feel slight discomfort when starting WeiYi?

A: Reported adverse reactions that commonly occur, particularly when initiating therapy, include stomach discomfort, flatulence, and nausea. These effects are typically described as mild and transient.

Q: Is WeiYi one of the medications that must be taken at the same time every day?

A: Official administration guidelines emphasize the need to adhere to a regular meal schedule and taking the tablets with meals. Consistency with the meal schedule is emphasized in the official administration guidelines for stable blood sugar control.

Q: Does WeiYi make the skin more sensitive to the sun?

A: Official information advises patients to take precautions against sun exposure, as this medication may make the skin sensitive to sunlight. This includes avoiding prolonged exposure and using protective clothing.

Q: How long after stopping WeiYi does the medicine typically leave the body?

A: The Metformin component is the longest-lasting, with an elimination half-life of approximately 17.6 hours in the blood. Based on this property, the drug is substantially cleared from the system in approximately 4 days after the final dose.

Q: Is WeiYi a controlled substance?

A: No. Based on government drug classifications, WeiYi, which contains Glibenclamide and Metformin, is formally identified as not being a controlled medication.

Q: Does WeiYi have different effects based on a person's age or gender?

A: Official labeling notes that in older individuals, the elimination of the Metformin component can be prolonged, which necessitates more frequent renal assessment. There is no specific data commonly reported regarding differences based on gender.

Q: What happens if a person takes too much WeiYi?

A: Taking more than the prescribed amount increases the risk of severe complications, most notably Lactic Acidosis and profound Hypoglycemia (very low blood sugar). Both of these conditions require immediate medical attention.

Q: Is WeiYi often used in combination with other prescription treatments for the condition?

A: The medicine itself is a combination of two agents, designed for use when single-agent treatment has been insufficient to control blood sugar. Regulatory information indicates that if blood sugar control is still inadequate, the addition of further blood-sugar-lowering medicines may be considered in clinical practice.

Q: Are there specific lifestyle changes that are recommended alongside taking WeiYi?

A: Official product information describes the medicine as an adjunct to diet and exercise. This confirms that healthy eating and physical activity are formally considered essential components of the overall treatment plan.

Q: Is there a high risk of allergic reactions to WeiYi?

A: The official product information lists severe allergic reactions, such as allergic shock, as rare but serious adverse events. It is formally contraindicated for anyone with a known hypersensitivity to its components, meaning a severe allergy is a reason not to use it.

Q: Can WeiYi affect blood pressure or blood sugar levels?

A: The medicine is specifically intended to affect blood sugar levels by improving glycemic control. While it is known to interact with certain blood pressure medicines (like ACE inhibitors), a direct effect on blood pressure itself is not listed as a common side effect.

How should WeiYi be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements

WeiYi (Glibenclamide/Metformin HCl) must be stored and disposed of according to specific official instructions to ensure product integrity and public safety.

Detail Regulatory Requirement
Storage Temperature Store at Controlled Room Temperature, defined as 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). Brief temperature excursions are permitted up to 30 C (86 F).
Protection & Container Must be kept in a tight, light-resistant container and protected from excessive moisture and heat. Do not use the medicine after the expiration date on the package.
Child Safety Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children at all times.
Disposal Instructions The preferred method for discarding unused or expired tablets is a drug take-back program. If one is unavailable, dispose of the medicine in the household trash by mixing it with an undesirable substance, such as dirt or used coffee grounds, and sealing the mixture in a bag. Do not dispose of the tablets via wastewater or by flushing down the toilet.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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