Glumetza (Metformin Hydrochloride)
Medication information written by Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Updated - February 8, 2021
Glumetza (Metformin) Medication Information
Uses
Glumetza is a biguanide, indicated as an adjunct therapy to diet and exercise in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus to help improve glycemic control.
Dosage
The tablets are available in several different strengths:
- 500 mg
- 1000 mg
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Glumetza include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Hypoglycemia
For a full list of side effects applicable to your needs, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Lactic Acidosis: lactic acidosis episodes have resulted in death, hypothermia, hypotension, and resistant low heart rates. Symptoms included malaise, myalgias, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal pain.
B12 Vitamin Deficiency: Taking Metformin may lower your vitamin B12 levels. Measure blood levels annually and vitamin B12 at 2 to 3-year intervals and manage any abnormalities.
Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use with Insulin and Insulin Secretagogues: Increased risk of low blood sugar when used in combination with insulin and/or an insulin secretagogue. A lower dose of insulin or insulin secretagogue may be needed.
Interactions
Common medications that interact are listed:
- Alcohol
- Ranolazine
- Vandetanib
- Dolutegravir
- Cimetidine
For more information on possible interactions, ask your pharmacist or doctor.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (68-77ºF).
Pharmacist Tips
- Discontinue Glumetza immediately and notify your healthcare provider if unexplained hyperventilation, myalgias, malaise, unusual somnolence, or other nonspecific symptoms occur.
- Hypoglycemia may occur when Metformin is given with oral sulfonylureas and insulin.
- Glumetza may result in ovulation in some premenopausal women which may lead to unintended pregnancy.
Glumetza FAQs
Can I take this with food?
Glumetza should be taken with meals.
Can I crush the tablets?
Swallow Glumetza tablets whole and never crush, cut or chew
When should I take Glumetza?
Glumetza should be taken with the evening meal.
What is Glumetza used for?
Metformin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes.
What is the side effects of Glumetza?
The most common side effects seen are diarrhea, nausea, and hypoglycemia.
Does Glumetza reduce weight?
Metformin might cause weight loss.
Related Drugs
Reference:
Glumetza {package insert}. Bridgewater, NJ: Salix Pharmaceuticals; 2018.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/021748s025lbl.pdf
Author: Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Dr. Roybal is a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist who has practiced in both ambulatory and acute care settings. Her pharmacy interests include oncology and general inpatient pharmacy.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.