Common Use

Glucophage is an oral diabetes medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. Its active ingredient, Metformin, belongs to the biguanide class of substances. It lowers blood glucose levels by suppressing glucose metabolism in the liver, reducing glucose absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, and enhancing glucose utilization in tissues. Glucophage helps stabilize or reduce body weight. Its therapeutic effect is only observed in the presence of insulin in the blood. It does not cause hypoglycemic reactions and improves the fibrinolytic properties of blood. Glucophage is used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults, including patients for whom sulfonylurea treatment was ineffective, especially in cases accompanied by obesity.

Dosage and Direction

Take Glucophage only as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose. It is typically taken with meals unless your doctor advises otherwise. For adults with type 2 diabetes, the standard dose is 500 mg or 850 mg once daily or twice daily. Depending on blood glucose levels, the dose can be increased to a maximum of 2550 mg daily, divided into three doses.

Precautions

Glucophage may cause a serious condition called lactic acidosis, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms include weakness, drowsiness, slow heartbeat, cold sensation, muscle pain, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and fainting. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms. Be cautious of low blood sugar symptoms such as hunger, confusion, irritability, drowsiness, headache, weakness, fast heartbeat, tremors, sweating, and seizures. Always keep a source of sugar on hand. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to Metformin
• Hyperglycemic coma or ketoacidosis
• Kidney or liver failure
• Heart failure, acute myocardial infarction, or respiratory failure
• Dehydration, infectious diseases, or extensive surgery and trauma
• Alcoholism or reduced-calorie diet (less than 1000 kcal/day)
• History of lactic acidosis
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Age over 60 or engaging in hard physical work (increased risk of lactic acidosis)
• Use 2 days before surgery, X-ray, or CT scans

Side Effects

Common side effects of Glucophage include nausea, vomiting, gas, bloating, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Severe side effects requiring immediate medical attention include:

• Swelling or rapid weight gain
• Symptoms of lactic acidosis: weakness, drowsiness, slow heartbeat, cold feeling, shortness of breath, abdominal or muscle pain, lightheadedness, fainting
• Allergic reactions: hives, swelling, rash

Drug Interactions

Glucophage interacts with other medications and substances, including:

• Cimetidine (Tagamet): Increases Glucophage levels in the blood
• Alcohol: Incompatible with Glucophage
• Indirect anticoagulants and Cimetidine: Use with caution
• Furosemide: Enhanced metabolism when used with Glucophage
• Medications that increase Glucophage's effects: Sulfonylurea derivatives, insulin, acarbose, MAO inhibitors, oxytetracycline, cyclophosphamide, salicylates
• Medications that decrease Glucophage's effects: Thyroid medications, birth control pills, hormones, Epinephrine, Glucagon, thiazide diuretics, nicotinic acid derivatives

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take double or extra doses.

Overdose

Overdose symptoms include low blood sugar signs such as hunger, confusion, irritability, drowsiness, headache, weakness, tremors, sweating, fast heartbeat, and seizures. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

Storage

Store Glucophage at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F). Keep it away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom or areas accessible to children.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of Glucophage and does not cover all possible uses, directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We are not liable for any errors in the information or any consequences resulting from its use.