Sukkarto is a generic variant of Glucophage (i.e. Metformin), SR or slow release versions. It is cheaper than the pharma ones, so has swept the board which our CCG's to prefer to save money. The active ingredient is compatible with Metformin but the pill base ingredients differ significantly. The mechanism used to delay normal Metformin is a form of natural cellulose that forms part of the matrix that is useful for capturing glucose during transit. However, the base of Sukkarto is chemical and does not dissolve and does not form the matrix. More importantly, the enteric coating used to delay the metabolism of the pill is also different. It is made from shellac, which is made from crushed insect bodies It provided them with protection. and does the same for the pills.
BUT shellac is a well known varnish used in the arts and crafts sector and is basically a waterproof shell on the pill. Now my experience with Sukkarto was short lived because I found it did not work for me at all. The pills were coming out the other end intact. Basically, my stomach acid was not strong enough to dissolve the med. I was also taking a PPI med to protect me from ulcers due to blood thinner meds,, which makes my stomach produce less acid.
So the requirement for carbs may be chemical to increase the hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Hydrogen from the carbs, chlorine from salt. This need to increase stomach acid just to swallow a pill is disturbing. and may trigger other problems in itself.
I asked my doctor to change me back, and there was no kickback. I think it was the threat to return the used pills back to him that did it (lol)
