Drug Name: Glucophage
Brand Names: Glucophage , Glucophage XR, Glumetza
Generic Name: metformin
Uses: Metformin is used for the treatment of type II diabetes in adults and children. It may either be used alone or in combination with other diabetic medications. Metformin works by lowering the blood sugar of the body when it is too high and it helps restore the way you use food to make energy. People who are at risk of having diabetes can take metformin to help prevent having the disease. Polycystic ovaries can also be treated by taking the medicine.
How to use: For the medicine to work properly, the dose should be in balance with the individual’s diet and exercise. For adults, the usual initial dosage is 500mg twice a day or 850 mg once a day. The dose can be increased depending on the response to the level of glucose in the blood. The maximum daily dosage is 2550 mg divided into three doses. In taking Glucophage XR, the initial dose is at 500 mg taken with dinner. This can be increased until a maximum of 2000mg either in single or double doses daily. All forms of metformin should be taken with meals. For children 10 to 16 years of age, the initial dose is 500 mg twice a day. This can be increased and reach a maximum of 2000mg. It is best to consult your doctor about the appropriate dosage for you.
Side Effects: The common side effects experienced in taking metformin are nausea, vomiting, gas, bloating, diarrhea and loss of appetite. These are usually only mild to moderate symptoms. There have been some cases though of these conditions becoming severe and this may cause the treatment to be stopped. These side effects are related to the dosage and may decrease when dosage is also decreased. A rare side effect of lactic acidosis may also be experienced during treatment. 50% of these cases can become fatal. The symptoms associated with this condition are weakness, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeats, muscle pain, upset stomach, lightheadedness and feeling cold.
Precautions: Individuals having reduced function of the kidneys or liver, congestive heart failure, severe acute illnesses and dehydration should inform their health care providers before taking metformin. These conditions increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis. Pregnant and nursing mothers should also avoid taking metformin as this may harm the health of the infant.
Drug Interaction: You should notify your doctor if you are taking cimetidine aside from metformin. This may increase the frequency of side effects on a person.
Overdose: Medical attention should be called in case of an overdose. One of the effects it may cause is lactic acidosis.
Missed Dose: Missed doses should be taken as soon as remembered. There should not be doubling up of dosage though. Just skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for the next one.
Important Note: At some point, metformin may stop working for you and your blood sugar may increase. You need to inform your doctor when this happens. He may shift you to other forms of antidiabetic medicine. It this still doesn’t lower your blood sugar, insulin injections may be needed.
Storage: A room temperature of 68 to 77 degrees F should be provided for storage.
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