Question 1

What is Glucophage?

Accepted Answer

Glucophage belongs to a class of drugs called biguanides. It works by helping the body restore its proper response to the insulin it naturally produces, while also decreasing the amount of sugar that the liver makes and that the stomach or intestines absorb.

By managing blood glucose levels, this treatment helps prevent long-term health complications associated with high blood sugar. It is designed to help the body process glucose more efficiently.

Question 2

What is Glucophage used for?

Accepted Answer

Glucophage is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus .

Question 3

How does Glucophage work?

Accepted Answer

Mechanism of Action

Glucophage, which contains the active ingredient metformin, works in several ways to help manage blood sugar levels. It belongs to a class of medications called biguanides. Unlike some other diabetes medications, it does not cause the body to produce more insulin, but instead focuses on how the body handles existing sugar and insulin.

The medication primarily works through the following three methods:

Reducing liver sugar production: It limits the amount of glucose (sugar) that the liver releases into the bloodstream.

Improving insulin sensitivity: It helps the muscles and other tissues in the body become more sensitive to insulin, which allows them to absorb and use sugar from the blood more efficiently.

Decreasing sugar absorption: It slows down the amount of sugar the intestines absorb from the food you eat.

Because Glucophage does not stimulate the pancreas to produce additional insulin, it is less likely to cause dangerously low blood sugar levels, known as hypoglycemia, when used as a standalone treatment.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Glucophage?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Glucophage is metformin .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Glucophage?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Glucophage may include:

diarrhea

nausea

abdominal discomfort

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Glucophage?

Accepted Answer

Glucophage belongs to the biguanide drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Glucophage and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Take Glucophage

Glucophage is taken by mouth, usually with meals. Taking this medication with food helps to prevent or reduce common side effects like nausea or stomach pain. It is important to follow the specific schedule prescribed by a healthcare provider and to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood sugar levels.

Administration Instructions

Regular Tablets: These are typically taken multiple times a day with meals.

Extended-Release Tablets: These are usually taken once daily, often with the evening meal. These tablets must be swallowed whole. Do not crush, chew, or break them, as this can cause too much of the drug to be released at once.

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered with some food. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Question 8

Is Glucophage safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

Managing blood sugar levels is important during pregnancy to reduce the risk of complications for both the parent and the developing baby. Glucophage is used by some pregnant individuals to treat type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes. While metformin crosses the placenta, current research has not established a definitive link between the medication and an increased risk of birth defects or other developmental issues. Healthcare providers typically evaluate whether to continue Glucophage or use insulin during pregnancy based on the patient's specific medical needs.

Breastfeeding

Metformin is known to pass into breast milk in small amounts. Studies suggest that the levels found in milk are low and generally considered safe for nursing infants. However, because the drug is present in breast milk, it is recommended to discuss the benefits and potential risks of breastfeeding with a healthcare professional. Monitoring the infant for any unusual symptoms is also advised when the parent is taking this medication.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Glucophage come in?

Accepted Answer

Glucophage is provided in the following oral dosage forms:

Oral Tablets: These are immediate-release tablets taken by mouth.

Extended-Release Oral Tablets: These tablets are designed to release the medication slowly over a longer period.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Glucophage?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

Glucophage (metformin hydrochloride) was first approved by the FDA in 1994. It is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The immediate-release formulation is also approved for use in pediatric patients aged 10 years and older.

Boxed Warning

The FDA requires a boxed warning for Glucophage due to the risk of metformin-associated lactic acidosis. This is a rare but serious metabolic complication that can occur if metformin builds up in the body. The risk is higher in patients with certain conditions, including:

Severe kidney impairment

Liver impairment

Congestive heart failure

Excessive alcohol intake

Dehydration

Regulatory Updates on Kidney Function

In 2016, the FDA updated its safety communications regarding metformin use in patients with kidney disease. The agency transitioned from using serum creatinine levels to using the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) to measure kidney function. Under current regulatory guidelines, Glucophage is contraindicated in patients with an eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . The FDA also recommends that healthcare providers evaluate the risks and benefits of starting or continuing the medication in patients with an eGFR between 30 and 45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 .

Safety and Monitoring

As part of its regulatory status, the FDA requires specific monitoring for patients taking Glucophage. This includes periodic assessment of kidney function and monitoring for vitamin B12 deficiency, as long-term use has been associated with a decrease in serum vitamin B12 levels.

Question 11

What should I know about Glucophage and metformin?

Accepted Answer

Metformin belongs to a class of drugs called biguanides. It helps control blood sugar in three main ways:

It reduces the amount of glucose (sugar) produced by the liver.

It decreases the amount of sugar the body absorbs from food.

It increases the body's sensitivity to insulin, helping cells use glucose more effectively.

Metformin is often the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes. It is used alongside diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control. Because it does not cause the body to produce more insulin, it has a lower risk of causing low blood sugar ( hypoglycemia ) compared to some other diabetes medications. It is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms and is not used to treat type 1 diabetes.

Glucophage

📋Overview

What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Metformin Information

FAQ

Additional Resources

Support & Help Resources

📚References

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