Glucophage XR

The active ingredient in Glucophage XR is metformin hydrochloride. It belongs to a class of medications known as non-sulfonylureas or biguanides. It is a diabetes medicine and it works to lower the hemoglobin A1C levels in the body. It does this by lowering the amount of sugar that your liver makes, decreasing how much sugar is absorbed through your intestines, and increasing your body's sensitivity to insulin.

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 XR. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Glucophage XR:

• Take this medication orally exactly as directed by your physician.
• Adult starting dose: 500 mg once daily with the evening meal.
• Avoid drinking alcohol since it lowers blood sugar levels and may increase your risk of lactic acidosis.
• If you miss a dose of Glucophage XR, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.
• This medication may interact with the dye used for an X-ray or CT scan.

The most common side effects of Glucophage XR include:

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
• Metallic taste.
• Weight loss.
• Nausea.
• Upset stomach.
• Diarrhea.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Glucophage XR. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Symptoms of lactic acidosis: stomach pain, decreased appetite, irregular heartbeat, diarrhea, trouble breathing, a general feeling of discomfort, severe muscle pain or cramping, and unusual drowsiness, and feeling cold.
• Low vitamin B12 levels.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Glucophage XR. 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.

Before starting Glucophage XR, 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 whether you have any of the following:

• Kidney disease or kidney problems.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency.
• Metabolic acidosis.
• Diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Congestive heart failure.
• Type 1 diabetes.
• Heart attack.
• Anemia.
• Liver disease.
• If insulin or other oral diabetes medications are being used.

Boxed Warning

• Lactic acidosis is a rare but potentially severe side effect of using metformin. You should notify your provider immediately if you have any symptoms of lactic acidosis as described above.

• Previous allergic reaction/hypersensitivity to metformin.
• Glucophage XR should not be given to a child younger than 10 years old.
• Severe renal impairment.
• Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis.

Some studies show that significant improvements in fasting plasma glucose levels can be seen within the first week, with maximum effects potentially taking 2 to 3 months to achieve.

When Glucophage XR 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.
• Dichlorphenamide.
• Propranolol.
• Medications that reduce metformin clearance (ranolazine, cimetidine).
• Alcohol use can potentiate the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism.

Metformin extended-release tablets come in the following dosage forms and strengths, including:

• 500 mg tablet.
• 750 mg tablet.

Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of reach of children.

EMD Serono Inc. is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Glucophage XR.

There are lower-cost generics available of the brand-name Glucophage XR.

Do not stop or adjust your use of this medication without first consulting with your doctor. Stopping this medication suddenly can cause your blood sugar to increase.

This medication may stimulate ovulation in a premenopausal woman and may increase the risk of unintended pregnancy. 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.

You should not breastfeed while taking this medication. 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.