Glucophage

What is it?

Composition

The composition of the drug Glucophage includes the active substance metformin, which is the main component for achieving the therapeutic effect. The drug is available in tablet form of various dosages, which allows you to choose the optimal treatment regimen depending on the individual needs of the patient and blood sugar levels.

• Metformin is an active substance that reduces blood glucose levels.
• Additional components that ensure the stability and digestibility of the drug.
• The tablet shell, which may include various inert substances to facilitate swallowing.

It is important to note that the composition may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, but always meets the necessary quality and safety standards.

How to use?

Proper use of Glucophage requires following certain guidelines to ensure maximum effectiveness and minimize the risk of side effects. Although this medication is prescribed only by a doctor, understanding the basic principles of administration can further help in successful diabetes management.

1. It is taken orally with food or immediately after a meal, which helps reduce the possibility of gastrointestinal side effects.
2. The standard starting dose is 500 mg or 850 mg once or twice a day, depending on blood sugar levels and the bodys response to treatment.
3. The dose can be gradually increased by the doctor to 2550 mg per day, while it should be divided into three doses.

It is necessary to strictly follow the doctors instructions and not exceed the recommended dose to avoid possible complications.

How does it work?

Glucophage works by reducing blood glucose levels through several mechanisms. Metformin, as an active substance, plays a key role by preventing the production of glucose in the liver and increasing tissue sensitivity to insulin. This allows the body to use available glucose more efficiently, which helps to reduce its level in the blood.

The drug also limits the absorption of glucose in the intestine, which further reduces the total amount of sugar entering the bloodstream after a meal. This comprehensive approach helps maintain more stable glucose levels throughout the day, which is extremely important for people with type 2 diabetes. In addition, through these mechanisms, Glucophage helps improve overall metabolism and reduce body weight, which is often a significant achievement for overweight and obese patients.

Indications

Glucophage is used in a number of situations where it is necessary to control blood sugar levels and improve the general condition of a patient with type 2 diabetes.

• Patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who need to lower their blood glucose levels.
• In cases where other treatments, such as sulfonylurea, have not produced the desired result.
• It is especially useful for overweight patients, as it helps to stabilize or reduce body weight.
• As a combination therapy, when it is necessary to enhance the effect of other antidiabetic drugs.

Glucophage is prescribed by a doctor, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient and other features of his health.

Contraindications

Contraindications for the use of Glucophage include a number of diseases and conditions in which taking this medicine may be dangerous to the patients health. It is necessary to carefully consider these restrictions in order to avoid undesirable consequences.

• Hypersensitivity to metformin or other components of the drug.
• Uncontrolled diabetes, which has led to coma or ketoacidosis.
• Renal or hepatic dysfunction, as well as severe cardiovascular diseases.
• Pregnancy and lactation, since the safety of the drug during this period has not been confirmed.
• Alcohol intake, since it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.

Before starting to take Glucophage, be sure to consult a doctor and tell about all your diseases and taking other drugs.

Side effects

Like any medicine, Glucophage can cause side effects that can vary in severity and frequency.

• Gastrointestinal disorders such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or bloating, which usually go away over time.
• Risk of developing lactic acidosis, which requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include general weakness, abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing.
• Allergic reactions, manifested as rash, itching, or swelling of the skin and mucous membranes.

These effects may require dose adjustment or even discontinuation of the drug, so if they occur, you must immediately consult a doctor.