Metformin Extended Release Oral Tablet (METFORMIN SUSTAINED-ACTION TABLET - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • diabetes
  • endocrine disorder

Brand Name(s): Fortamet, Glucophage, Glumetza

Generic Name: Metformin, Metformin Osmotic, Metformin, modified

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

Take the medicine with food.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

Tell your doctor if you have severe or persistent sweating, diarrhea or vomiting. These can increase your risk of a serious side effect.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

This medicine usually does not cause low blood sugar levels if you eat regular meals.

Symptoms of low blood sugar may include nausea, shaking, sweating, cold skin, fast heartbeat, hunger, and irritability.

Parts of this medicine may come out in the stool. This is normal.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine is associated with a rare but very serious medical condition. Please speak with your doctor about symptoms you should look out for while on this medicine. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop those symptoms.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • diarrhea
  • excess gas
  • nausea and vomiting
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain
  • changes in taste or unpleasant taste
  • weakness

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • chills
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • feeling cold or numb, especially in arms and legs
  • fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
  • muscle pain
  • pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
  • rapid breathing
  • shortness of breath
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.