Glucophage XR

The active ingredient in Glucophage XR is metformin. It is used for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It works by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose production in the liver, providing a significant glucose lowering effect that helps to lower blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association recommends metformin as a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes.

You should start taking the medicine as directed by your doctor, following their instructions carefully. 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 this medicine:

• Take Glucophage XR exactly as prescribed, usually with an evening meal. Eating food with this medicine can help minimize gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Swallow tablets whole without crushing or chewing the tablet shell.
• Do not change your prescribed dose or stop taking this medication without talking to your doctor first.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take it at its next scheduled time. Do not take two doses at once.
• Learn the symptoms of high and low blood sugar and how to treat low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor.

The most common side effects of Glucophage XR include:

• Diarrhea
• Upset stomach
• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Upset stomach.
• Low levels of vitamin B12 may occur with long-term use

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:

• Lactic acidosis symptoms such as stomach pain, decreased appetite, irregular heartbeat, diarrhea, rapid breathing, a general feeling of discomfort, severe muscle pain or cramping, and unusual drowsiness
• Signs of allergic reaction such as hives, swelling of your face, tongue, or throat, and trouble breathing
• Symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) such as feeling shaky, nervousness, sweating, chills, irritability, confusion, fast heartbeat, dizziness, nausea, and hunger

This is not a complete list of all 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 your medical history with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart conditions, heart attack, or metabolic acidosis. It is also important to monitor your kidney function before and during treatment, because having serious kidney issues increases the risk of lactic acidosis.

Inform your doctor if you are scheduled for surgery, a CT scan, or an x-ray with contrast dye, as you may need to temporarily stop this medication to reduce the risk of lactic acidosis and protect your kidney function. Avoid alcohol while taking Glucophage XR, as alcohol can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.

Boxed Warning

There is a risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious side effect that can occur with metformin use, particularly in patients with kidney or liver disease. If left untreated, this condition can lead to other health problems, including organ failure, which can be deadly. Get medical attention right away if you experience trouble breathing, irregular heartbeat, muscle pain, stomach pain, or feeling very tired or dizzy. These can be signs that you have too much lactic acid in your blood.

Glucophage XR should not be used in patients with severe kidney disease, metabolic acidosis, or diabetic ketoacidosis. It should also be avoided if you have a known allergy to metformin or any of the inactive ingredients in the product.

Glucophage XR begins working to lower blood sugar levels within hours of taking it, with the extended-release formulation providing glucose control throughout the day. However, it may take 2 to 3 months to see the full effect of this medications on blood sugar control.

Many drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, can interact with Glucophage XR and affect its safety or effectiveness. When it is taken with other medicines, such as vitamins, supplements, or herbal products, it may change how these medicines work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about all other medicines and other medications you are taking, including other diabetes medicines, insulin, and medicines used for medical tests or CT scans, to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Glucophage XR is available in 500 mg, 750 mg, and 1000 mg extended-release tablets. It is typically taken once daily with the evening meal.

Store Glucophage XR at room temperature and keep out of reach of children. Do not share your medication with others.

Glucophage XR is manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibb.

Yes, generic versions of extended-release metformin are available.

Do not stop taking Glucophage XR without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to increased blood sugar levels.

Pregnancy is an important consideration when using Glucophage XR. 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.

Studies have shown that metformin is found in breast milk. Because there is a possibility for hypoglycemia in the nursing infant, taking this medication is generallly not recommended. However, talk to your doctor if you are breastfeeding or plan on breastfeeding. They will know or recommend what is best for you.