Generic Glucophage - metformin - is used to treat a type of diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes) called type 2 diabetes. With this type of diabetes, insulin produced by the pancreas is not able to get sugar into the cells of the body where it can work properly. Using Glucophage / metformin alone, with a type of oral antidiabetic medicine called a sulfonylurea, or with insulin will help to lower blood sugar when it is too high and help restore the way you use food to make energy.


 

FAQ

How does Glucophage work?
Glucophage is an antihyperglycemic agent which improves glucose tolerance in patients with type 2 diabetes, lowering both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. The pharmacologic mechanisms of action are different from other classes of oral antihyperglycemic agents. Glucophage decreases hepatic glucose production, Metformin also decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. Unlike sulfonylureas, Glucophage does not produce hypoglycemia in either patients with type 2 diabetes or normal subjects (except in special circumstances) and does not cause hyperinsulinemia. With Glucophage therapy, insulin secretion remains unchanged while fasting insulin levels and day-long plasma insulin response may actually decrease.

How to use Glucophage
Glucophage (metformin hydrochloride tablets) and Glucophage XR (metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets), as monotherapy, are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. Glucophage is indicated in patients 10 years of age and older, and Glucophage XR is indicated in patients 17 years of age and older. Glucophage or Glucophage XR may be used concomitantly with a sulfonylurea or insulin to improve glycemic control in adults (17 years of age and older).

There is no fixed dosage regimen for the management of hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes with Glucophage, Glucophage XR or any other pharmacologic agent. Dosage must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily dose. The maximum recommended daily dose is 2550 mg in adults and 2000 mg in pediatric patients (10-16 years of age).

Glucophage or Glucophage XR should be started at a low dose, with gradual dose escalation, both to reduce gastrointestinal side effects and to permit identification of the minimum dose required for adequate glycemic control of the patient.

Glucophage side effects
• Stop taking the drug and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

• A small number of people who have taken metformin have developed a serious condition called lactic acidosis. Lactic acidosis has occurred most often in people whose kidneys were not working properly. Stop taking Glucophage and call your doctor immediately if you experience a feeling of general discomfort or sickness; weakness; sore or aching muscles; trouble breathing, unusual drowsiness, dizziness or lightheadedness; unusual or unexplained stomach upset (after the initial stomach upset that may occur at the start of therapy with metformin); or the sudden development of a slow or irregular heartbeat. These may be signs of lactic acidosis.

• Glucophage does not usually cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Nevertheless, hypoglycemia may occur in the treatment of diabetes, as a result of skipped meals, excessive exercise, or alcohol consumption. Know the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar, which include hunger, headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, a fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a non-dietetic candy or glucose tablets to treat episodes of low blood sugar.

• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take the medication and talk to your doctor if you experience
       · nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea at the start of therapy;
       · abdominal bloating or increased gas production; or
       · decreased appetite or changes in taste (metallic taste in your mouth).