What is Glucophage/Metformin used for?

This medication is used to treat type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependent diabetes), in addition to diet and exercise, to lower blood sugar in adults who cannot manage their diabetes with diet alone. This medication can be used with other diabetes medications.

If you have any questions about your medicine, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider. This medicine is to be used by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not give it to others. This information is advisory only. It does not contain all information about this medicine. If you have any questions about your medicine, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

How should Glucophage/Metformin be stored?

Store between 59 to 86 degrees F. Protect from light and moisture.

General drug information:

When should Glucophage/Metformin not be taken?

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any ingredient in this medicine you have or have had kidney problems you have had heart failure that required medication you are currently undergoing radiation treatment you have metabolism problems you drink too much alcohol you are seriously dehydrated you are going to have surgery you are at least 80 years old and have not had your kidneys tested

What precautions should I follow when taking Glucophage/Metformin?

Before using this medicine, tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you have any other medical condition

What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Glucophage/Metformin?

People with kidney problems should not use this medication. Metformin lowers blood glucose (sugar) by reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver and the amount of sugar absorbed by the intestines. It may also increase the sensitivity of the cells of the body to the action of insulin.

What are the side effects of Glucophage/Metformin?

Most severe:  Heart problem.

Most common:  Diarrhea; nausea; vomiting; stomach bloating; gas; loss of appetite; unpleasant or metallic taste in mouth.

Other: Abdominal distention, abnormal stools, altered sense of taste, chest discomfort, chills, constipation, dizziness, flu-like symptoms, flushing, increased sweating, low blood sugar, light-headedness, muscle pain, nail disorders, pounding heartbeat, rash, shortness of breath, upper respiratory infection

How should I take Glucophage/Metformin?

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount andperor frequency of the medicine you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Patients must follow diet and exercise instructions given to them by their health care provider. There are risks that come along with this medicine. Be sure to discuss them with your doctor. Lactic acidosis may occur while taking this medicine. Symptoms include general body discomfort, breathing problems, increasing drowsiness, upset stomach, feeling cold, dizziness, lightheadedness, and slowed heartbeat. If this does occur, seek medical attention at once. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. If stomach problems occur while taking this medication, take with meals. If you are taking this medication along with other diabetes medications, the risks of taking this medication should be told to you by your health care provider. Diabetic patients may experience a loss of blood sugar control. Check blood sugar levels as often as possible. Lab tests are required while taking this medication. Be sure to keep appointments. Do not stop taking this medication without checking with your doctor. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking this medication. Do not take more medication than is prescribed unless advised to do so by your doctor or health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your doctor. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.