Glucophage XR (Metformin)

What is Glucophage XR?

Glucophage XR is the first-line anti-diabetic drug for treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is particularly useful for people with type 2 diabetes that are overweight or obese but still have normal kidney function. It is also used in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome, and is being investigated for use in other illnesses where insulin resistance may be an important factor. This is due to the fact that its main function is to suppress glucose production by the liver.

Glucophage XR is the only anti-diabetic drug that was been scientifically shown to prevent heart complications related to diabetes, which it accomplishes by reducing LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It also has a positive impact on weight maintenance and has been shown to increase weight loss due to appetite and insulin response.

Glucophage Side Effects

When it is properly administered, Glucophage XR causes very few adverse effects. The most commonly reported side effect being gastrointestinal distress. A dangerous complication is associated with overdose, as it is with overdosing on most prescription drugs, that is referred to as lactic acidosis, which is a buildup of lactate in the blood.

Possible side effects:

• Headache or muscle pain
• Weakness or mild nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Stomach pain

Possible serious side effects:

• Shortness of breath even with mild exertion
• Swelling or rapid weight gain
• Fever
• Chills
• Body aches
• Flu-like symptoms

This is not a complete list of side effects, and if others occur similar to an allergic reaction seek immediate emergency medical help.

Glucophage Dosage Information

There is no prescribed dosage regiment for managing type 2 diabetes and this will be determined by your doctor. The dosage of Glucophage XR must be individually prescribed based on your requirements including any other medications that you may be taking. It is important not to exceed the maximum recommended daily dose of Glucophage XR which is 2000 mg/day for adults. It should be taken once daily with dinner or any meal in the evening. As a general rule the dosage should start lower and then be increased to build gastrointestinal tolerance and decrease the likelihood of distress. It is also important to swallow the Glucophage XR tablets whole, as they should never be crushed or chewed.

Information on Glucophage Weight Loss

The reason that Glucophage is so effective at stabilizing blood sugar and insulin levels, also lends itself to increasing weight loss efforts. The lowering of blood sugar and increase in insulin sensitivity helps to reduce hunger cravings and decreases the amount of glucose that is absorbed. Glucophage XR is usually taken once a day and can maintain blood sugar throughout the day to reduce appetite and help you avoid sugar cravings caused by swings in blood sugar. With this in mind the drug is sometimes prescribed to aid weight loss in people that do not have type 2 diabetes, but that are obese or overweight and need an added boost to their weight loss.