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Glucophage (metformin hydrochloride) is an oral antidiabetic drug used to treat type 2 diabetes (non-insulin-dependent). Diabetes develops when the body is unable to burn sugar. Glucophage lowers the amount of sugar in blood by decreasing sugar production and absorption. This helps body to respond better to its own insulin, which promotes the burning of sugar. Glucophage does not increase the body's production of insulin. Metformin in Glucophage can in rare cases cause a serious, sometimes fatal medical condition called lactic acidosis. Stop taking Glucophage and contact medical attention if you develop any of lactic acidosis symptoms: muscle pain, unusual tiredness, blue and cold skin, chills, severe drowsiness, unusually slow and irregular heartbeat or fast and difficult breathing. Lactic acidosis is more likely to occur in people who have certain medical conditions: kidney or liver disease, conditions that may cause a low oxygen blood level or poor circulation (recent stroke, recent heart attack or severe congestive heart failure), heavy alcohol use, a serious infection, a severe loss of body fluids (dehydration), recent surgery, X-ray or scanning procedures that require an injectable iodinated contrast drug. If you have any of these conditions, you may need to stop taking Glucophage temporarily. Elderly, especially those older than 80 years who have not had kidney tests, are also at higher risk. If your liver is not functioning normally, you should not take Glucophage, since liver disease, including liver failure and cirrhosis can increase your risk of lactic acidosis. While you are taking Glucophage, your kidney function needs to be monitored. You should have blood tests, so doctor can check your kidneys before you start Glucophage. When taking Glucophage, you should have your kidneys checked at least once every year. You should not take Glucophage, if your kidney function is very poor due to increased risk of lactic acidosis. Glucophage and contrast dye taken together at the same time can increase risk of kidney damage. Contrast dye is used for certain radiology procedures, including heart catheterizations and some x-rays, CT scans. Glucophage should also be temporarily stopped for most major surgeries and should be started again when you are eating normally. |
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