Glucophage (metformin) is an oral diabetes medicine that helps control blood sugar levels. Glucophage is for people with type 2 (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes. Glucophage is sometimes used in combination with insulin or other medications, but it is not for treating type 1 diabetes. Glucophage may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

The health and medical information provided here is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of this medicine is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.

You should not use Glucophage if you are allergic to metformin, or if you are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis (call your doctor for treatment with insulin).
If you need to have any type of x-ray or CT scan using a dye that is injected into your veins, you will need to temporarily stop taking Glucophage.
Before taking Glucophage, tell your doctor if you have liver disease or a history of heart disease.
Some people develop lactic acidosis while taking Glucophage. Early symptoms may get worse over time and this condition can be fatal. Get emergency medical help if you have even mild symptoms such as: muscle pain or weakness, numb or cold feeling in your arms and legs, trouble breathing, stomach pain, nausea with vomiting, slow or uneven heart rate, dizziness, or feeling very weak or tired.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Glucophage: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. This medication may cause lactic acidosis (a build-up of lactic acid in the body, which can be fatal). Lactic acidosis can start slowly and get worse over time. Get emergency medical help if you have even mild symptoms of lactic acidosis, such as:
muscle pain or weakness;
numb or cold feeling in your arms and legs;
trouble breathing;
feeling dizzy, light-headed, tired, or very weak;
stomach pain, nausea with vomiting; or
slow or uneven heart rate.
Call your doctor at once if you have any other serious side effect such as:
feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;
swelling or rapid weight gain; or
fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms.
Less serious Glucophage side effects may include:
headache or muscle pain;
weakness; or
mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, gas, stomach pain.

Take Glucophage exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.
Take Glucophage with a meal, unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Glucophage XR should generally be taken once daily with the evening meal. Follow your doctor`s instructions.
Glucophage is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. It is important to use this medicine regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
Do not crush, chew, or break an extended-release metformin tablet (Glucophage XR). Swallow the pill whole. Breaking the pill may cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.
Your blood sugar will need to be checked often, and you may need other blood tests at your doctor`s office. Visit your doctor regularly.
Check your blood sugar carefully during a time of stress or illness, if you travel, exercise more than usual, drink alcohol, or skip meals. These things can affect your glucose levels and your dose needs may also change.
Your doctor may want you to stop taking Glucophage for a short time if you become ill, have a fever or infection, or if you have surgery or a medical emergency.
Ask your doctor how to adjust your Glucophage dose if needed. Do not change your medication dose or schedule without your doctor`s advice.
Your doctor may have you take extra vitamin B12 while you are taking Glucophage. Take only the amount of vitamin B12 that your doctor has prescribed.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light