Glucophage
Formulated to target type 2 diabetes mellitus to alleviate hyperglycemia through improved insulin sensitivity.
- Category
- Diabetes Management
- Active ingredient
- Metformin
- Supply
- Pharmacy
- Route
- Oral use
- Form
- Film-coated tablet; Prolonged-release tablet
- Strengths
- 500 · 850 · 1000mg
Glucophage details
- Condition
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
- Alternative names
- Metabet; Glucophage SR; Glycomet
- Therapeutic class
- Biguanide Antidiabetic
- Pharmacological class
- Biguanide
- Known off-label uses
- polycystic ovary syndrome
- Contraindications
- severe renal impairment; diabetic ketoacidosis; hypersensitivity
- Minor side effects
- nausea; vomiting; diarrhoea
- Moderate side effects
- abdominal pain; loss of appetite
- Serious side effects
- lactic acidosis, requires immediate medical attention
- Dosage forms
- Film-coated tablet; Prolonged-release tablet
- Administration route
- Oral use
- Supply category
- Pharmacist only, dispensed without a prescription
- Manufacturer
- Merck KGaA
- Onset Time
- 2–3 hours
- Duration
- 6–12 hours
- Storage instructions
- Store at room temperature in the original packaging.
- Drug interactions
- Alcohol; Iodinated contrast agents
- Age restrictions
- Consult specialist for use in children.
Precautions and warnings
monitor kidney function; withdraw before contrast imaging; risk of vitamin b12 deficiency
Patient summary
Formulated to target type 2 diabetes mellitus to alleviate hyperglycemia through improved insulin sensitivity.
Mechanism of action
This treatment works by reducing glucose production in the liver, decreasing intestinal glucose absorption, and enhancing the body's sensitivity to insulin. It effectively helps maintain blood sugar levels in the target range.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Insulin is usually preferred for blood glucose control during pregnancy. Breastfeeding: Small amounts may be present in milk; consult a physician.
Where this medicine is registered
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Taiwan
- South Korea
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
- UAE
- South Africa
About Glucophage
Glucophage is a leading oral medication containing metformin, widely used to manage Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. This well-known formula is available under other brand names such as Metabet, Glucophage SR, and Glycomet. Produced by Merck KGaA, it is supplied as tablets in strengths of 500, 850, and 1000mg to accommodate various health plans.
Buying Glucophage online
Glucophage is registered across 14 markets, including Taiwan, South Korea and Japan, with availability also in the UAE, Singapore and Hong Kong. Generic metformin, often produced in India, offers a far more cost-effective alternative to the original brand. This makes the medication highly accessible for expats and those living throughout the region who need a consistent supply. Individuals can order this treatment online for delivery across these key Asian destinations.