Glucophage is a medication to treat diabetes. The active ingredient in Glucophage is metformin which is dispensed as oral tablets (500mg, 850mg and 1000mg) as well as extended-release tablets (500mg and 750mg).

Drug Uses

Glucophage is used to treat type 2 diabetes. The active ingredient in Glucophage maintains correct levels of blood sugar. Glucophage does not treat type 1 diabetes.

Glucophage may be used to treat other medical conditions not listed in this information guide.

Dose

Glucophage must always be used as directed. Do not make adjustments to the dose before speaking to a doctor. Glucophage should be taken with meals.

Never break open, chew or crush the extended release capsule.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, it may be taken when you remember (with food). However, do not take the missed dose near the time of the next scheduled dose. In this case, ignore the missed dose. Never double-up on a dose.

Warnings and Precautions

Do not use Glucophage if you are allergic to metformin.

If you are using Glucophage, wear a medical alert. In case of an emergency, the medical staff assisting you will need to know that you are diabetic.

Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart problems or if you have liver disease.

Do not use Glucophage is you have kidney disease.

Before using Glucophage, you must give your doctor full details of your medical history and other medications that you use. These include herbal medicines and vitamin supplements. Glucophage can react badly with some medications.

Glucophage is not likely to harm an unborn fetus therefore this medication may be used by pregnant women. Glucophage is passed into breast milk so women who are breast-feeding should use this medication with caution, under a doctor’s directions.

In rare occasions Glucophage has caused a serious condition known as lactic acidosis. Symptoms of this condition are extreme drowsiness, weakness, slow heart rate, muscle pain, shortness of breath, feeling cold, fainting, or stomach pain. If any of these symptoms occur while using Glucophage contact your doctor immediately.

In case your blood sugar level drops always keep a supply of candy, orange juice, glucose or milk.

Possible Side-effects

Call for emergency assistance if any of the following symptoms of allergy occur: difficulty in breathing, hives, or swelling of the lips, tongue, throat or face.

Contact your doctor if any of the following side-effects occur: rapid weight gain or swelling, fever, chills, flu symptoms, body aches, or shortness of breath (after mild exertion).

Less serious side-effects can include mild nausea or vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, gas, weakness, muscle pain, or headache.

Contact your doctor if any uncomfortable symptoms occur, or persist.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, call for emergency assistance immediately. Symptoms of overdose with Glucophage can include signs of low blood sugar (hunger, irritability, confusion), drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, sweating, tremors, increased heart beat, fainting, convulsions, or coma.

Storage instructions

Glucophage must be kept away from children and stored in a dry, cool place away from sunlight and moisture.