Glucophage (Glucophage)
Diabetes Medication Treatment
Metformin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It helps regulate blood sugar and improves the body's response to insulin.
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Glucophage Product Information
Metformin, marketed under brand names such as Glucophage, is an oral medication primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. It helps to control high blood sugar levels by improving the body's response to insulin and reducing glucose production by the liver. It is often prescribed in conjunction with diet and exercise modifications.
This medication is a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes, particularly in overweight patients, and can also be used to prevent type 2 diabetes in individuals at high risk. It may also be prescribed for other conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), to help manage insulin resistance.
Metformin works by decreasing glucose production in the liver, decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. It belongs to the biguanide class of antidiabetic agents.
Take Metformin by mouth with water, as directed by your healthcare provider. It is typically taken with food at the start of a meal, at the same time every day. Continue taking the medication unless your doctor tells you to stop.
Metformin usually begins to lower blood sugar levels within the first week of treatment. However, it may take 3 to 4 weeks to achieve its full and sustained therapeutic effect.
The effects of Metformin typically last for approximately 24 hours, requiring daily dosing to maintain steady-state plasma concentrations.
Glucophage Quick View
| Active Ingredient | Metformin hydrochloride |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Various manufacturers (e.g., Bristol-Myers Squibb for Glucophage brand) |
| Type | Biguanide |
| Onset | Metformin typically begins to exert its blood sugar-lowering effects within the first week of treatment. |
| Duration | The effects of Metformin typically last for approximately 24 hours, requiring daily dosing to maintain steady-state plasma concentrations. |
| Food Interaction | Metformin should be taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. No specific food interactions are generally noted beyond this recommendation. |
| Alcohol | Alcohol can interact with Metformin, potentially increasing the risk of lactic acidosis. It is generally advised to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication. |
| Prescription | Prescription only |
Glucophage Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Headache
- Metallic taste in mouth
- Nausea
Uncommon Side Effects
- Low vitamin B12 level (pain, tingling, numbness in hands or feet, muscle weakness, dizziness, confusion, trouble concentrating)
- Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat)
Rare Side Effects
- Lactic acidosis (severe and rare)
Important Warning: Report any signs of allergic reactions, high lactic acid levels (muscle pain, stomach pain, trouble breathing), or low vitamin B12 levels to your care team immediately. This list may not describe all possible side effects.
More Information About Glucophage
Storage
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep out of reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medication properly through a take-back program or by mixing with undesirable substances and sealing in a bag before discarding in the trash.
Contraindications
Metformin is contraindicated in patients with severe kidney disease, metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis), and hypersensitivity to metformin. It should also be temporarily discontinued before certain imaging procedures involving iodinated contrast agents and during surgery.
Drug Interactions
Metformin can interact with several medications, including certain contrast agents used for imaging scans (CT, MRI, X-ray), acetazolamide, alcohol, cimetidine, dichlorphenamide, dolutegravir, ranolazine, topiramate, vandetanib, and zonisamide. Other medications that may affect blood sugar levels or mask symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) include certain antibiotics, blood pressure medications, mental health medications, diuretics, hormones, steroids, testosterone, thyroid hormones, and beta-blockers. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, herbs, non-prescription drugs, and dietary supplements you are taking.
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Content last updated: 14 Apr 2026
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