Buy Glucophage (Metformin Hydrochloride)

Glucophage® (Metformin HCL) patient handout

• Glucophage (Metformin HCL) is used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus; also Glucophage may be used with diet, insulin or sulfonylurea oral hypoglycemics.

• Glucophage decreases hepatic glucose production; decreases intestinal glucose absorption; increases sensitivity to insulin.
• Therapeutic effects of Glucophage : maintenance of blood glucose.

• Absorption Absorption describes the process that follows drug administration and its subsequent delivery to systemic circulation. : 50%-60% absorbed after oral administration.
• Distribution Drug's distribution in body tissues and fluids. : enters breast milk in concentrations similiar to plasma.
• Metabolism and excretion Important in determining dosage regimens and intervals for persons with hepatic or impaired renal function. : eliminated almost entirely unchanged by the kidneys.
• Half life The half-life of a drug is the amount of time it takes the drug level to decrease by 50% and roughly correlates with the duration of action. : 17.6 hours.

• Glucophage (Metformin) is contraindicated in : hypersensitvity; metabolic acidosis; dehydration; sepsis; hypoxemia; hepatic impairment; excessive alcohol use; renal dysfunction; radiographic studies requiring intravenous iodinated contrast media; congestive heart failure.
• Use Glucophage cautiously in : concurrent renal disease; geriatric/debilitated persons; chronic alcohol use/abuse; serious medical conditions (myocardial infarction, stroke); persons undergoing stress; hypoxia; pituitary deficiency or hyperthyroidism; pregnancy and lactation or children under 10 years (safety not established yet; Glucophage XR should be used only on children above 17 years).

• Glucophage side effects and adverse reactions can be : diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, flatulence, anorexia, taste perversion, megaloblastic anemia, lactic acidosis, hypoglycemia.

• Take Glucophage (Metformin) at the same time each day, as directed.If a dose if missed, take as soon as possible unless almost time for next dose.Don't double doses.
• Glucophage helps control hyperglycemia but doesn't cure diabetes.Glucophage therapy is usually long term.
• Follow prescribed diet, medication and exercise regimen to prevent hyperglycemic or hypoglycemic episodes.
• If hypoglycemia occurs, take a glass of orange juice or 2-3 tablespoons of sugar, honey or corn syrup dissolved in water and notify health care professional.
• You should know that is very important to test your blood glucose and urine ketones.These tests should be monitored closely during period of stress or illness and health care professional notified if significant changes occur.
• Avoid taking other Rx, OTC, herbal products or alcohol during Glucophage therapy without consulting health care professional.
• Insulin is the recommended method of controlling blood glucose during pregnancy.Women : use a form of contraception other than oral contraceptives and notify health care expert promptly if pregnancy is planned or suspected.
• Glucophage may cause an unpleasant or metallic taste that usually resolves spontaneously.
• Taking Glucophage XR tablets that inactive ingredients resembling XR tablet may appear in stools.
• Inform health care professional of medication regimen before treatment or surgery.
• Carry a form of sugar (sugar packets, candy, sugar gum) and identification describing disease process and medication regimen at all times.
• You should know about the risk of lactic acidosis and the potential need for discontinuation of Glucophage therapy if a severe infection, dehydration or severe or continuing diarrhea occurs or if medical tests or surgery is required.Symptoms of lactic acidosis (like chills, diarrhea, dizzines, muscle pain) should be reported to health care professional immediately.
• Report the occurrence of diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and stomach pain or fullness to health care professional.
• You should learn the importance of routine follow-ups exams and regular testing of blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, renal function and hematologic parameters.
• Dont' change Glucophage dosage without prescriber's consent.Report abnormal glucose level test results.
• Don't cut, crush or chew, Glucophage XR tablets; instead you should swallow them whole.
• Diabetes is lifelong ilness; Glucophage doesn't cure, only controls symptoms.