Glucophage XR

Who is Glucophage XR for ?

Metformin is used to treat type 2 (noninsulin-dependent) diabetes (formerly "adult-onset"). Metformin helps your body to regulate the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. Metformin is not used to treat type 1 (insulin- dependent) diabetes (formerly "juvenile-onset"). this medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Metformin is used on an experimental basis in the treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition of multiple cysts in the ovaries that can lead to infertility in women.

Metformin is used for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. The exact way that metformin works in the body is not known, but the effects are well documented. Metformin decreases the absorption of sugar or "glucose" by the intestines, decreases the production of sugar in the liver, and also increases the body's ability to use insulin.

When should I be careful taking Glucophage XR ?

Call your doctor immediately if you experience the symptoms of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious side effect: severe shortness of breath, drowsiness, achiness, general discomfort, cold, or dizziness.

Before taking metformin,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to metformin or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially cimetidine (Tagamet), diuretics ("water pills"), nifedipine (Procardia), and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver, kidney, heart, pituitary, or thyroid disease; adrenal insufficiency; a severe infection; or hormone problems.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking metformin, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking metformin.

Side Effects

Although side effects from metformin are not common, they can occur. If you have any of these symptoms, eat or drink a food or beverage with sugar in it, such as hard candy or fruit juice, and call your doctor immediately; symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) include:

• shakiness
• dizziness
• rapid heartbeat
• sweating or confusion
• blurred vision
• headache
• numbness or tingling of the mouth
• weakness
• fatigue
• pale color
• sudden hunger

If you have any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately; symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) include:

• thirst
• dry mouth
• tiredness
• flushing
• dry skin
• frequent urination
• loss of appetite
• trouble breathing

If you experience any of the following symptoms, or those listed in the IMPORTANT WARNING section, call your doctor immediately:

• seizures
• loss of consciousness
• skin rash
• itching or redness
• exaggerated sunburn
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• light-colored stools
• dark urine
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• fever
• sore throat