Indications
Glumetza is a medication prescribed as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The active ingriedent in Glumetza is called Metformin Hydrochloride. Metformin belongs to a group of drugs called biguanides. Metformin works by reducing glucose production in the liver, reducing glucose absorption in the intestines, and improving glucose uptake and utilization in peripheral tissues.
Glumetza is an extended-release form of the medication metformin hydrochloride that comes in tablets of 500mg and 1000mg. It can improve glycemic control and can prevent serious complications of diabetes, such as heart attack, stroke, blindness, nerve damage, kidney damage, loss of limbs, and sexual dysfunction. However, Glumetza is not effective in treating type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Uses and Dosage
Glumetza is an extended-release tablet that is taken orally. The tablet is typically prescribed once a day, with the evening meal or as directed by your physician. Swallow the tablet whole with plenty of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet as this can release the medicine too quickly, which may increase your chances of experiencing side effects.
Take Glumetza regularly and as prescribed by your doctor, to avoid skipping doses and worsening your condition. Your dosage and frequency are determined by your medical condition, response to therapy, and other medications you are currently taking. Do not change your dosage or stop using Glumetza abruptly without consulting with your healthcare provider.
The typical dosing for Glumetza (Metformin) is usually initiated with 500 mg by mouth twice daily or 850 mg by mouth once daily. Depending on its effectiveness, the total daily dose can be increased up to 2,550 mg per day, split into several doses throughout the day.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Glumetza (Metformin Hydrochloride ER):
- A metallic taste in the mouth
- Flatulence
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Glumetza (Metformin Hydrochloride ER):
- Persistent vomiting
- Seizure
- Severe abdominal pain
- Symptoms of high blood sugar or hyperglycemia (increased urination, thirst, confusion, flushing, rapid breathing, and fruity breath odor)
- Symptoms of low blood sugar or hypoglycemia (shaking, sudden sweating, fast heartbeat, dizziness, blurred vision, tingling sensation)
Form and Strength
Glumetza (Metformin Hydrochloride ER) is available in the following forms and strength:
Glumetza: ER Tablet
- 500 mg
- 1000 mg
Metformin Hydrochloride ER: ER Tablet
- 1000 mg
Caution
- Lactic acidosis: There is a risk of developing lactic acidosis, a serious condition that can lead to death, with the use of Glumetza. This risk is increased in patients with kidney or liver problems, heart failure, or excessive alcohol intake.
- Hypoglycemia: Glumetza can cause low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia). Patients should be advised on symptoms of hypoglycemia and instructed on how to treat it.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency: Long-term use of Glumetza can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, which can cause anemia, nerve damage, and other problems.
- Renal impairment: Glumetza should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment. Reduction in dosage or discontinuation of the medication may be necessary.
- Hepatic impairment: Glumetza should be used with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Reduction in dosage or discontinuation of the medication may be necessary.
- Use with contrast agents: Patients taking Glumetza who receive intravascular iodinated contrast agents may develop acute kidney injury.
- Surgery and diagnostic procedures: Patients taking Glumetza may need to temporarily discontinue the medication before surgery or certain diagnostic procedures involving intravascular administration of iodinated contrast agents.
- Geriatric patients: Patients over 80 years old taking Glumetza are at increased risk of hypoglycemia and should be monitored closely.
- Pediatric patients: The safety and effectiveness of Glumetza for children or adolescents under the age of 18 has not been established.
- Drug interactions: Glumetza may interact with other medications, including corticosteroids, diuretics, and certain medications used to treat high blood pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you take metformin without a meal?
It is best to take metformin with food to prevent stomach upset. You are more likely to experience nausea and diarrhea when taking it without meals.
How many times a day should you take metformin?
Metformin can be taken once or twice daily. Please talk to your provider to figure out what dose is best for you.
Does Glumetza cause weight gain?
Glumetza is not associated with weight gain. In fact, some studies suggest that it may result in modest weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes.
Can Glumetza be used by people with heart problems?
Patients with heart problems should consult with their healthcare professional before taking Glumetza. They may need to take additional precautions or undergo monitoring.
Resources
- https://www.uspharmacist.com/CMSDocuments/2011/10/Glumtzta%20Product%20Information%20Guide%20October%202011.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-144868/glumetza-oral/details
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/021748s005lbl.pdf
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/glumetza.html
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=fb832474-88d9-4e29-95cd-fbc446944cc4
- https://www.goodrx.com/metformin/what-is
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