Glucophage (Metformin)
Medication information written by Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Updated - February 8, 2021
Glucophage (Metformin) Medication Information
Uses
Glucophage is a biguanide used as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults and pediatric patients 10 years of age and older with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Dosage
The tablets are available in several different strengths:
- 500 mg
- 850 mg
- 1000 mg
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Glucophage include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Flatulence
- Asthenia
- Indigestion
- Abdominal discomfort
- Headache
For a full list of side effects that may apply to you, 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 B12 vitamin levels. Measure blood levels annually and vitamin B12 at 2 to 3-yearA lower 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. Decreasing the dose of insulin or insulin secretagogue may be warranted.
Interactions
Common medications that interact with Glucophage are listed:
- Alcohol
- Ranolazine
- Vandetanib
- Dolutegravir
- Cimetidine
For more information about possible interactions, ask your doctor or pharmacist
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (68-77ºF). Protect from light.
Pharmacist Tips
- Discontinue Glucophage 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.
- Glucophage may result in ovulation in some premenopausal women which may lead to unintended pregnancy.
Glucophage FAQs
Can I take this with food?
Glucophage should be taken with meals.
Is this medication safe to use if I am pregnant?
Limited data with Glucophage in pregnant women are not sufficient to determine a drug-associated risk for major birth defects or miscarriage. Speak with your doctor if you become pregnant.
When should I take Glucophage?
Metformin should be taken with meals twice a day.
What is Glucophage used for?
Metformin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes.
What is the side effect of Glucophage?
The most common side effects are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, flatulence, headache, and abdominal pain.
Does Glucophage reduce weight?
Glucophage might cause weight loss.
Related Drugs
Reference:
Glucophage {package insert}. Princeton, NJ: Bristol-Myers Squib Company; 2018.
https://packageinserts.bms.com/pi/pi_Glucophage.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.