Generic Glucophage

METFORMIN - ORAL TABLET

Warning:
Metformin can cause a condition called lactic acidosis. Though occurring rarely, lactic acidosis can be fatal. Stop using Glucophage and seek immediate medical help if you develop any of the following symptoms of lactic acidosis: unusual tiredness (fatigue), weakness, or stomach discomfort; muscle pain, breathing trouble; feeling cold (low body temperature), dizzy or lightheaded; or a slow or irregular heartbeat. Lactic acidosis is more likely to occur in patients who: have heart failure, kidney or liver problems; are elderly; use alcohol excessively; are seriously dehydrated (lack body fluids); will undergo x-ray procedures that require an injectable contrast drug; will have surgery; develop a serious infection, heart attack or stroke; are over 80 years of age and have not had kidney and liver tests.

Uses:
Metformin is used along with diet and exercise programs to control high blood sugar in diabetic patients.

How to Take:
This is best taken with meals. Try to take Glucophage at the same time(s) each day. The long-acting form of Glucophage must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew the tablets.

Side Effects:
Nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea or metallic taste may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: chills, weakness, change in heart rate, breathing problems, sleepiness, muscle pain, vomiting. Glucophage usually does not cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) which manifests as dizziness, weakness, drowsiness, headache, sweating, nervousness, shaking, tingling of hands or feet, hunger, increased pulse rate or rapid heart rate. However, should these symptoms occur, drink a glass of orange juice or non-diet soda or eat a piece of candy to raise your blood sugar level quickly. Report the incident to your doctor. To help prevent low blood sugar, eat meals on a regular schedule and do not skip meals. Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) include confusion, drowsiness, flushing, rapid breathing or fruity breath odor. Notify your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of liver disease, lung problems, kidney problems, heart disease, strokes, major surgery, allergies. Notify your doctor if you become ill, are injured or acquire a severe infection. Avoid alcohol while using Glucophage. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to Glucophage. Use with caution. Before using Glucophage, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Metformin may be excreted into breast milk. Though to date there have been no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take. Certain drugs may increase your blood sugar. Inform your doctor if you are taking: diazoxide, beta-blockers, diuretics, birth control pills, prednisone-like drugs, niacin, phenytoin, decongestants, diet pills. If you are scheduled to undergo any diagnostic procedure using iodinated contrast material, be sure to inform your doctor that you are taking metformin. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include muscle aches, trouble breathing, increased sleepiness, low body temperature, slow heartbeat, dizziness, and lightheadedness.

Notes:
Glucophage is not a substitute for proper diet and exercise. It is recommended to attend a diabetes education program to understand diabetes and all aspects of its treatment including diet, exercise, personal hygiene, medications and getting regular eye exams. While taking Glucophage, periodic laboratory tests will be done to monitor therapy and prevent side effects. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease and circulation problems.

Missed Dose:
Try to take each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage:
Store Glucophage at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat, light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.