Why is this medication prescribed?

Metformin is used alone or with other medications, including insulin, to treat type 2 diabetes (a condition in which the body does not use insulin normally and, therefore, cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood). Metformin is in a class of drugs called biguanides. Metformin helps to control the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. It decreases the amount of glucose you absorb from your food and the amount of glucose made by your liver. Metformin also increases your body's response to insulin, a natural substance that controls the amount of glucose in the blood. Metformin is not used to treat type 1 diabetes (condition in which the body does not produce insulin and therefore cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood).

Metformin comes as a liquid, a tablet, and an extended-release (long-acting) tablet to take by mouth. The liquid is usually taken with meals one or two times a day. The regular tablet (non extended-release) is usually taken with meals two or three times a day. Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 1-3 times a day with meals. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Swallow the whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew it. It is used with a proper diet and exercise program and possibly with other medications to control high blood sugar

Blood sugar levels can be affected by stress, illness, surgery, exercise, alcohol use, or skipping meals. Ask your doctor before changing your dose or medication schedule. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to metformin or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Glucophage is only part of a complete treatment program that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, regular blood sugar testing, and special medical care. The dosage may be based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking.

This medication may cause changes in your blood sugar. You should know the symptoms of low and high blood sugar.

- Diarrhea

- Bloating

- Stomach pain

- Gas

- Indigestion

- Constipation

- Unpleasant metallic taste in the mouth

- Heartburn

- Headache

- Flushing of the skin

- Nail changes

- Muscle pain

What other drugs will affect Glucophage?

Many drugs can interact with metformin, making it less effective or increasing your risk of lactic acidosis. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

What exactly does metformin do to your body?

Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Metformin works by helping to restore your body's proper response to the insulin you naturally produce. It also decreases the amount of sugar that your liver makes and that your stomach/intestines absorb.

Does metformin make you tired?

If you take too much metformin you may feel sleepy, very tired, and sick, vomit, have trouble breathing and have unusual muscle pain, stomach pain or diarrhea. These may be early signs of a serious condition called lactic acidosis (build-up of lactic acid in the blood).

What should I avoid while taking Glucophage? Avoid drinking alcohol. It lowers blood sugar and may increase your risk of lactic acidosis.