Glumetza improves glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes by enhancing insulin sensitivity, reducing gastrointestinal glucose absorption and decreasing glucose production in the liver. This medication does not stimulate insulin secretion from the pancreas and therefore does not cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Glumetza extended-release differs from regular metformin in that it is generally suitable for once daily administration. Glumetza must be taken with food to ensure complete release and absorption of the metformin dose. Glumetza may be used as monotherapy, or in combination with a sulfonylurea or insulin.
Dosage and Forms
Glumetza extended-release tablets come in strengths containing 500mg or 1000mg of metformin hydrochloride for oral administration.
Before Taking Glumetza
Talk to your doctor about all medical conditions you have, including: heart problems, liver problems or kidney problems
Talk to your doctor if you frequently consume alcohol
Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
Notify your doctor of all medications you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medications, herbal remedies and vitamins
Proper Use of Glumetza
Take Glumetza exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will usually start you on a low dose and increase your dose slowly to control your blood sugar levels. Do not change your dose unless told to do so by your doctor.
Take Glumetza once daily, by mouth, in the evening with food.
Swallow Glumetza tablets whole. Never crush, split or chew Glumetza tablets.
Stay on your exercise and diet program and test your blood sugar regularly while taking Glumetza.
If you miss a dose of Glumetza, resume dosing according to schedule.
When Glumetza should not be used
Glumetza should not be used in patients:
Who have type 1 diabetes
Who have acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
Who have a history of lactic acidosis
Who are pregnant
Side Effects
The most common side effects that may be experienced while taking Glumetza include: nausea, diarrhea and upset stomach. These side effects generally subside after taking the medication for a while. Taking Glumetza with the evening meal may reduce these side effects.
Glumetza rarely causes low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) by itself. However, low blood sugar may occur if you do not eat enough, if you drink alcohol, or if you take other medicines that lower blood sugar.
In very rare cases, Glumetza may cause a serious metabolic condition called lactic acidosis, which requires immediate medical attention.
Ingredients
Active ingredient: Metformin hydrochloride
Inactive ingredients:
Each 500 mg tablet contains coloring, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose and polyethylene oxide.
