General Information on Glucophage XR
Glucophage XR is used for controlling high blood sugar in diabetic patients with type 2 diabetes. Active ingredient in the medicine is Metformin, and it belongs to the class of drugs known as anti-diabetic medicines.
Controlling blood sugar helps in preventing serious problems like blindness, loss of limbs, nerve problems, kidney damage or sexual function problems in such patients. The drug works by restoring your body’s response to insulin that is produced naturally. It also reduces the sugar content produced by the liver and absorbed by the stomach or intestines.
When you buy Glucophage XR, your doctor will also recommend you to follow a regular exercise regime and a proper diet plan. This medicine is available in the form of oral tablets.
In addition to controlling high blood sugar, Glucophage XR is also used for women having polycystic ovarian syndrome. It makes menstrual cycles regular and increases a woman’s fertility.
Side effects of Glucophage XR
Glucophage XR can lead to a fatal condition known as lactic acidosis, especially if you have a liver or kidney disease, a serious infection, heavy alcohol abuse, dehydration, poor blood circulation or congestive heart failure or if you recently had a surgery, heart attack or stroke. Seek medical help immediately if you develop blue or cold skin, chills, severe dizziness, unusual tiredness, fast or difficult breathing, muscle pain, stomach pain accompanied by nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting.
You may lose too much water content from your body and you may become dehydrated, especially if you are using water pills, if you have high fever, diarrhea or vomiting or if you sweat heavily due to strenuous physical exercise or hot weather. Drink lots of fluids during Glucophage XR treatment.
As Metformin in the medicine may change your menstrual cycle and promote ovulation, you have more chances of getting an unwanted pregnancy. Therefore, it is advised to use a barrier form of contraception during the treatment, such as condoms or diaphragms.
Diarrhea, weakness, stomach upset, vomiting, nausea and metallic taste in mouth can be commonly experienced by Glucophage XR patients. Empty shells of the tablet may appear in your stools, which is harmless, as the medicine is already absorbed by your body.
Some serious side effects associated with the drug include lightheadedness, chest discomfort or pain, lightheadedness, difficulty breathing, muscle weakness or pain or persistent throat soreness.
Dosage of Glucophage XR
The dosage of Glucophage XR recommended to you depends on your medical condition and your tolerance level. However, it should not exceed Glucophage XR 2500mg for adults and Glucophage XR 2000mg for children from 10 to 16 years of age.
Usually, you will be advised to take only one tablet once in a day, preferably with your evening meal. Take the tablet whole, without crushing, chewing or dissolving it. Your treatment will start with a low dose, and it will be increased gradually depending on your response to the treatment.
Drug Interactions of Glucophage XR
Do not buy Glucophage XR if you are already taking water pills such as warfarin. Taking both these medicines together may increase your chances of getting dehydrated. Also, your doctor must know about your complete medical background as well as all the medicines that you are on.
