Glucophage XR

Glucophage XR is a prescription medication that is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The drug works by decreasing the amount of sugar made by the liver and by decreasing insulin resistance. As with any medication, there are potential side effects of Glucophage XR, such as diarrhea and nausea. The dose of Glucophage that your healthcare provider prescribes will vary depending on several factors, such as how well your diabetes is controlled, other medical conditions you may have, and other medications you may be taking.

 

What Is Glucophage XR?

Glucophage XR® (metformin ER, Glutametz®, and Fortamet®) is a prescription medication licensed to treat type 2 diabetes (also known as noninsulin-dependent diabetes or adult-onset diabetes). The drug is a long-acting, extended-release version of Glucophage.
 
(Click What Is Glucophage Used For? for more information on what Glucophage XR is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Glucophage XR?

Generic Glucophage XR is made by several manufacturers. Glucophage and Glucophage XR are manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibb. Glutametz is made by Depomed Inc., and Fortamet is made by Andrx Labs.
 

How Does Glucophage XR Work?

Glucophage XR works in several ways. For example, the drug decreases the amount of sugar (glucose) made by the liver. Glucophage XR can also decrease the amount of sugar absorbed into the body (from the diet) and can decrease insulin resistance, helping the body to use insulin better.
 
Because Glucophage XR does not increase the amount of insulin produced by the body, it is less likely to cause dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), as many other diabetes medications can do (see Alternatives to Metformin).
 
(Glucophage XR Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;