Glucophage® (metformin) tablets for type 2 diabetes

What Glucophage® Is and How It Works

Glucophage® is the brand name for metformin, a biguanide used to manage type 2 diabetes. It lowers fasting and post‑meal blood sugar by reducing liver glucose output and improving insulin sensitivity in muscle. Many patients use it as first‑line therapy. It comes as immediate‑release and extended‑release tablets taken with food. If you are comparing options, reviewing the glucophage price helps you plan your treatment budget.

YouDrugstore is a licensed Canadian pharmacy in Manitoba. Our pharmacists review prescriptions before dispensing, and we offer brand and generic medicines at Canadian prices. You can order online, and our customer‑service chat is available during posted office hours for support.

We source through licensed, vetted partner pharmacies to supply authentic brands and a broad selection at competitive pricing. This helps keep costs reasonable across strengths, including Glucophage® 500 mg and 1000 mg.

Dosage and Usage

Follow your prescriber’s directions. Typical use:

• Immediate‑release: start 500 mg once or twice daily with meals.
• Increase by 500 mg weekly as tolerated to improve control.
• Divide doses with breakfast and dinner to reduce stomach upset.
• Maximum daily dose for immediate‑release is usually 2550 mg.
• Extended‑release (XR): start 500 mg once daily with the evening meal.
• Increase by 500 mg weekly; usual XR maximum is 2000 mg once daily.
• Swallow XR tablets whole; do not crush, split, or chew.

Missed dose:

• Take it when remembered if it is not close to the next dose.
• Skip the missed dose if near the next scheduled dose.
• Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

Storage and travel:

• Store at 20–25°C (68–77°F) in a dry place.
• Keep tablets in the original container with the label.
• Avoid heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• When traveling, carry it in your hand luggage.
• Bring enough tablets for your trip, plus extra for delays.

Benefits and Savings

Glucophage® improves A1C and fasting glucose with a low risk of hypoglycemia when used alone. It is generally weight‑neutral, and some patients see small weight reductions with diet and activity. Extended‑release tablets can improve stomach tolerability for some people. Once‑daily XR dosing may fit busy schedules.

Ordering through YouDrugstore can lower medication costs. Many customers see 60–80% savings versus typical US pricing. You can compare glucophage xr price and immediate‑release options to match your goals. We also carry generic metformin to expand choice and value.

Side Effects and Safety

Common effects often ease with meals and slow titration:

• Nausea, upset stomach, or abdominal discomfort
• Diarrhea or loose stools
• Gas or bloating
• Loss of appetite or metallic taste
• Headache

Less common but serious concerns require urgent care:

• Lactic acidosis symptoms: unusual tiredness, muscle pain, fast or difficult breathing, slow or irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness
• Severe dehydration, especially with vomiting or diarrhea
• Hypoglycemia when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas
• Vitamin B12 deficiency with long‑term use

Use may be unsuitable with severe kidney disease (eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m²), unstable heart failure, active liver disease, or heavy alcohol use. Treatment may be paused around iodinated contrast procedures or serious illness. Report persistent stomach symptoms, very low appetite, or rapid weight loss.

Onset Time

Fasting glucose often improves within days of starting or increasing the dose. The full A1C effect appears after 8–12 weeks at a stable dose. Extended‑release tablets may take a few weeks to show their best tolerability and effect.

Compare With Alternatives

Glucophage® vs generic metformin: Both contain metformin hydrochloride in equivalent strengths. Clinical effect is comparable when dosed the same. Many patients choose Metformin for lower cost, while others prefer the brand.

Glucophage® vs GLP‑1 receptor agonists: Oral semaglutide, sold as Rybelsus®, can lower A1C and support weight loss. It is usually more costly and has special dosing steps on an empty stomach. Some patients use metformin first and add a GLP‑1 if targets are not met.

Glucophage® vs SGLT2 inhibitors: Dapagliflozin, sold as Forxiga®, lowers A1C and supports modest weight loss. It may offer heart and kidney benefits in select patients. It increases urine glucose, so genital infections can occur. Many people start with metformin, then add an SGLT2 if needed.

Combination Therapy

Metformin is commonly used with other agents when A1C remains above goal. Options include insulin, sulfonylureas, DPP‑4 inhibitors, GLP‑1 receptor agonists, and SGLT2 inhibitors. Combination choices depend on glucose patterns, weight goals, kidney function, and cardiovascular risks. Some patients with polycystic ovary syndrome also use metformin under clinician guidance.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

People with type 2 diabetes who need better glucose control often start with metformin unless contraindicated. Extended‑release may suit those with stomach sensitivity to immediate‑release tablets. Dose adjustments consider kidney function and tolerability.

Ways to manage costs:

• Compare glucophage 500mg price with glucophage 1000 mg price to match your prescribed dose.
• Consider generic glucophage (metformin generic) for lower cost.
• Choose a multi‑month supply to reduce per‑month expense.
• Turn on reorder reminders so you do not run short.

For current promotions and bulk options, see our metformin sale page.

For related conditions, you can browse Diabetes and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. To learn more about weight‑focused therapies, read Best Weight Loss Injections Top Options To Consider or Mounjaro Dosage Beginners Guide To Dosing.

Authoritative Sources

For detailed prescribing information, see the Health Canada Drug Product Database and the FDA’s Glucophage/Glucophage XR Prescribing Information. These resources cover dosing, contraindications, and safety data.

You can order Glucophage® tablets or metformin through YouDrugstore at Canadian prices. Our team supports your order with caring service, and your package ships to the US with prompt, express, cold‑chain shipping when needed.

This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your prescriber’s directions and your local care team’s guidance.