Glucophage (Metformin)

Do's

• Take Glucophage regularly at the same time each day to maximize its effectiveness. 
• Inform your healthcare provider about all your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products. 
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully regarding dosage and administration. 
• Follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions regarding stopping or continuing the old medication while starting Glucophage if you're already taking another diabetes medication. 
• Check your blood sugar levels regularly as directed by your healthcare provider. 
• Keep track of your blood sugar readings and share them with your healthcare provider. 
• Inform your healthcare provider if your blood sugar levels are too high or too low, as your dosage or treatment plan might need adjustment. 

Don'ts

• Don't stop or change the dosage of Glucophage without consulting your healthcare provider. 

Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose based on your specific condition, response to treatment, and other medications you take. To minimize side effects like an upset stomach, your healthcare provider might initiate treatment with a low dose and gradually increase it over time. 

Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Upset stomach
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Passing of gas
• Weight loss

Serious Side Effects: 

• Lactic acidosis
• Unusual muscle pain
• Feeling cold
• Trouble breathing
• Feeling dizzy or weak
• Stomach pain
• Vomiting, or a slow or irregular heartbeat. 
• Allergic reaction: such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• Severe dizziness
• Trouble breathing.

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking  Glucophage,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Disclose any allergies to metformin or other medications, including over-the-counter and herbal products.

Share your medical history with your healthcare provider, particularly if you have:

• Breathing problems (like asthma)
• Blood problems (anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency)
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications (including Metformin) before any surgery or X-ray/scanning procedures using contrast dyes, as you might need to temporarily stop Metformin.

Be cautious about driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness due to potential side effects like dizziness and vision changes.

Limit alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and low blood sugar. Be mindful of dehydration due to fever, diuretics, sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting, and consult your healthcare provider if experiencing these.

Discuss managing stress with your healthcare provider as it can impact blood sugar control and potentially require treatment adjustments.

Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects like low blood sugar and lactic acidosis.

Discuss the risks and benefits of Metformin with your healthcare provider as insulin might be preferred during pregnancy.

Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding as Metformin passes into breast milk in small amounts.

Metformin may affect the menstrual cycle and increase the risk of pregnancy. Discuss birth control options with your healthcare provider.