Glucophage Overview
Glucophage is used along with a healthy diet and regular exercise to help improve blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Additionally, Glucophage can help patients with weight loss and is associated with a lower risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) compared to other antidiabetic medications such as sulfonylureas. It is important to note that this medication is not indicated for type 1 diabetes.
Purchase Glucophage on Universal Drugstore and save today!
How does Glucophage work?
The active ingredient in Glucophage is metformin hydrochloride. Glucophage belongs to a class of medications known as biguanide anti-hyperglycemic agents. Its mechanism of action involves its work to increase insulin sensitivity while reducing hepatic (liver) production of sugar. Additionally, it works to decrease glucose absorption by the intestines. This helps lower and manage your hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels).
How do you use Glucophage?
Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Glucophage. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Glucophage:
- Glucophage is typically taken by mouth up to 3 times daily.
- Glucophage XR is taken only once daily with your evening meal.
- If you miss a dose, take the medication as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
- A decrease in folic acid and vitamin B12 levels, causing vitamin B12 deficiency, can be observed while on Glucophage. Adequate vitamin intake will be necessary.
What are the side effects of Glucophage?
The most common side effects of Glucophage seen in clinical trials include:
- Low blood sugar
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Headache
Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Glucophage. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:
- Increased risk of lactic acidosis – trouble breathing, fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat, vomiting, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, feeling cold, or muscle pain
- Low vitamin B12 levels when taken long-term – fatigue, muscle weakness, low appetite, or tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
- Allergic reaction – hives, shortness of breath, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
These are not all of the possible side effects of Glucophage. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.
What are the warnings or precautions for Glucophage?
Before starting Glucophage, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:
- Scheduled surgery
- Anemia
- Dehydration
- Cardiovascular disease, congestive heart failure, previous heart attack, or stroke
- Excessive alcohol intake
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Serious infection or injury
- Vomiting
- Allergic reaction to metformin
- Pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Scheduled X-ray or CT scan
- Kidney disease or reduced kidney function
- Metabolic acidosis
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Liver disease
Boxed Warning
- Lactic acidosis is a rare, but potentially severe, side effect of metformin. It occurs due to a build-up of lactate in the body. Some risk factors that increase your chance of this include drinking alcohol, certain medications, being 65 years of age or older, surgery and other procedures, congestive heart failure), and liver impairment.
Are there any contraindications with Glucophage?
- Previous hypersensitivity/allergic reaction.
- Patients with severe renal impairments or kidney problems.
- Patients with acute or chronic metabolic acidosis.
How long does it take Glucophage to work?
Metformin will usually start lowering your blood sugar (glucose) levels in the first week of treatment, but it may take 2 to 3 months to see its full effect.
What interacts with Glucophage?
When Glucophage is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:
- Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (topiramate)
- H2-receptor antagonist (cimetidine)
- Ranolazine
What doses of Glucophage are available?
Glucophage comes in 2 dosage forms and multiple strengths, including:
- Glucophage (metformin immediate-release tablets)
- Glucophage XR (metformin extended-release tablets)
How do I store Glucophage?
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light, and keep out of the reach of children.
Which pharmaceutical company manufactures Glucophage?
The pharmaceutical company that manufactures Glucophage is EMD SERONO INC.
Is there a generic version of Glucophage?
There are lower-cost generics available for the brand-name Glucophage.
How do I stop taking Glucophage?
Do not stop or adjust your use of this medication without first consulting with your doctor.
Can Glucophage be used if I am pregnant?
Controlling diabetes is crucial during pregnancy, as having high blood sugar may cause complications in both the mother and the baby. It is unknown if or how Glucophage could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.
Can Glucophage be used if I am breastfeeding?
Glucophage passes into breast milk, but the effects on the baby or milk production are unknown. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.
Sources
Metformin Tablets. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed January 15, 2025.
Metformin. DrugBank Online. Accessed January 15, 2025.
Metformin. Medline Plus. Accessed January 16, 2025.
What to Know About Glucophage (Metformin). Verywellhealth. Accessed January 17, 2025.
Glucophage 500 mg film coated tablets. EMC. Accessed January 17, 2025.