GLUCOPHAGE (METFORMIN)

Glucophage is Formulated for Type 2 Diabetics

Glucophage or generic Metformin is a prescription medicine specially formulated for those with type 2 diabetes to help control their blood glucose levels. Glucophage also helps to increase your body’s sensitivity to the insulin your pancreas can produce so your body is able to use it more efficiently. This medication will not work for type 1 diabetics as your pancreas does not produce insulin and Glucophage requires at least some insulin in order to work.

Glucophage Works Several Ways in Your Body

When taken as directed, Glucophage or generic Metformin works as a biguanide drug and blocks the production of glucose (sugar) in your liver as well as improves your body’s sensitivity to insulin and decreases how much your intestines absorb sugar. This action will minimize sugar spikes after a meal as your bloodstream will have less glucose enter it. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Metformin is an effective medicine on its own, but your doctor might recommend taking another medication with it to produce better results because not everyone has an easy time eating a balanced meal or finding time to exercise. Diabetes can run in families, so you should have your blood sugar checked routinely, try to eat healthy, and exercise.

Conditions Treated with Glucophage

People with type 2 diabetes can still produce insulin but not sufficient enough to control the amount of sugar in your bloodstream, or your body is not properly using the insulin it can produce. Your body gets its energy by making glucose from the foods you eat, such as bread, potatoes, pasta, or milk. Insulin is then needed to cause cells in your liver, muscles, and fat tissue to take up the glucose from your blood and store it in these tissues to be used as energy when your body needs it. Without your body being able to do this, the sugar remains in your bloodstream and you have high blood glucose readings.

If your diabetes is not brought under control, continued high blood glucose levels can damage nerves and blood vessels and you risk heart disease or stroke. There is no cure for diabetes but Glucophage and a sensible diet, weight loss, and quitting smoking will allow you to control blood sugar levels and enjoy your life and the people in it for many years.

Before You Take Glucophage

Discuss your medical history with your doctor and provide information about any OTC and Rx drugs you are taking, including dietary and vitamin supplements so it can be determined if Glucophage is the right medication for you.

Precautions to be Aware of with Glucophage

Ask your doctor if Glucophage is safe to take if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or are breast feeding. You should not take Glucophage if you have moderate to severe kidney problems or liver problems as this could cause Glucophage to build up in your blood and cause lactic acidosis.

Possible Side Effects of Glucophage

• Bloated or full feeling
• Heartburn
• Excess gas in your stomach or intestines
• Metallic taste in your mouth
• Nausea/vomiting