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Glucophage

Active Ingredient:
Metformin Hydrochloride
Origin:
EU

Glucophage (Metformin Hydrochloride)

Glucophage is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient metformin hydrochloride. It is formulated as an oral tablet, with various strengths available in the European market. As a member of the biguanide class, Glucophage is used to help manage blood glucose levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The drug is taken by mouth under medical supervision and should be prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional.

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Merck Santé S.A.S.

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Indications & Clinical Uses

Glucophage is indicated primarily for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults.

  • Improves glycemic control when used alone or in combination with other antidiabetic agents.
  • Helps lower fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c levels.
  • May be prescribed as part of a comprehensive lifestyle modification program including diet and exercise.
  • Can be used in patients with overweight or obesity to aid weight management alongside glucose control.
  • Occasionally employed off‑label for polycystic ovary syndrome under specialist guidance.

Side Effects

Side effects of Glucophage vary in frequency and severity; patients should be aware of both common and serious reactions.

Common

  • Gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, abdominal discomfort, or diarrhea.
  • Metallic taste in the mouth.
  • Decreased appetite or mild weight loss.
  • Mild headache or dizziness.

Serious

  • Lactic acidosis, a rare but life‑threatening condition.
  • Severe skin reactions like Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
  • Persistent vomiting leading to dehydration.

Precautions & Warnings

Before starting Glucophage, certain precautions and warnings should be considered to ensure safe use.

  • Assess renal function; contraindicated in severe renal impairment.
  • Monitor liver enzymes; avoid use in patients with acute or chronic liver disease.
  • Evaluate for conditions that predispose to hypoxia, such as heart failure or recent myocardial infarction.
  • Use caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding; risk‑benefit should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
  • Regularly check vitamin B12 levels, as long‑term therapy may affect absorption.
  • Adjust dose in elderly patients due to altered pharmacokinetics.

Avoid Interactions

Glucophage can interact with several medications; awareness of these interactions helps prevent adverse outcomes.

Avoid

  • Iodinated contrast agents used for imaging studies.
  • Cimetidine and other potent CYP450 inhibitors that may increase metformin levels.
  • Alcohol excess, which raises the risk of lactic acidosis.

Use with caution

  • Diuretics and ACE inhibitors that may affect renal function.
  • Beta‑blockers or other antihypertensives that can mask hypoglycemia symptoms.
  • Steroids or thyroid hormones that may alter glucose metabolism.

Frequently Asked Questions

Glucophage is primarily prescribed to improve blood glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production and increases peripheral insulin sensitivity, which together help lower circulating glucose levels.

Glucophage should be avoided in patients with severe renal impairment; dosage adjustments may be needed for moderate impairment, and renal function should be monitored regularly.

Common gastrointestinal effects include nausea, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and a metallic taste in the mouth.

Lactic acidosis is a rare but serious adverse reaction associated with metformin, especially in patients with conditions that predispose to hypoxia or renal dysfunction.

Yes, iodinated contrast agents can increase the risk of lactic acidosis; clinicians usually advise temporary discontinuation of metformin before and after the procedure.

The safety of Glucophage during pregnancy is not fully established; treatment decisions should be made by a healthcare provider weighing potential benefits and risks.

Long‑term use of metformin may reduce vitamin B12 absorption, so periodic monitoring of B12 status is recommended.

Excessive alcohol intake can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and should be limited or avoided while on metformin therapy.

Yes, metformin is often used in combination with other oral agents or insulin to achieve better glycemic control, but dosing should be individualized by a clinician.

Baseline and periodic assessments of renal function, liver enzymes, HbA1c, and possibly vitamin B12 are recommended to ensure safe and effective therapy.

Glucophage is usually taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal upset and improve absorption; the exact dosing schedule should follow the prescribing information.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

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