July 1, 2019 by Lynne M. (CT, United States)
“I have no side effects at all from this wonderful improvement on metformin!”
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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Prescription Required
Glumetza (metformin extended release)
If you have type 2 diabetes mellitus, your doctor may have prescribed Glumetza. In people with type 2 diabetes mellitus, their bodies are less sensitive to the insulin made by their pancreas. Insulin is responsible for moving glucose into cells and providing them with energy. When insulin isn't working, the cells don't get the energy they need. Also, extra glucose in the blood damages blood vessels.
Glumetza works by making cells more sensitive to the insulin already there.
| Fact Table | |
| Formula |
C4H11N5 |
| License |
US FDA, EU EMA |
| Bioavailability |
50–60% |
| Legal status |
Rx-only |
| Chemical Name |
Metformin |
| Elimination half-life |
4–8.7 hours |
| Dosage (Strength) |
500mg, 1000mg |
| Pregnancy |
No Known Risk |
| Brands |
Glucophage, Glumetza |
| Protein binding |
Minimal |
| PubChem CID |
4091 |
| MedlinePlus |
a696005 |
| ChEBI |
6801 |
| ATC code |
A10BA02 |
| DrugBank |
DB00331 |
| KEGG |
D04966 |
| Routes of administration |
By mouth |
The usual dosage is 500-2000 mg per day. Dosages can be divided once or twice a day.
Take Glumetza with food to lessen the side effects.
The active ingredient in Glumetza is metformin.
The most common drug-drug interactions may include:
Glumetza may need to be paused during surgery.
Extended-release metformin may remain intact and visible in the stool.
Tell your doctor if you have a history of kidney or liver problems.
If you are experiencing any of the following, it may be a side effect of metformin:
Glumetza [package insert]. Menlo Park, CA: Depomed, Inc; 2009.
What is Glumetza used for?
Glumetza is used along with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It's sometimes used with insulin or other medications.
How should Glumetza be taken?
Swallow the extended-release tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it. Inform your doctor if you have trouble swallowing the tablets whole.
What is the drug class of Glumetza?
Glumetza belongs to the drug class Biguanide, and it's a form of Metformin Extended Release.
What are some common brand names for Metformin Extended Release?
Glumetza, Glucophage XR, and Fortamet are common brand names for Metformin Extended Release.
What should I do if I have an allergic reaction to Glumetza?
If you have an allergic reaction to Glumetza, discontinue use and seek medical attention.
Is Glumetza suitable for treating type 1 diabetes?
No, Glumetza is not for treating type 1 diabetes.
What are the forms of Glumetza available?
Glumetza is available in the form of tablets, including extended-release tablets, and an extended-release suspension.
What is the generic name for Glumetza?
The generic name for Glumetza is Metformin Hydrochloride.
What are the contraindications for Glumetza?
Do not use Glumetza if you've had an allergic reaction to Metformin. It's important to keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
Where should Glumetza be stored?
Keep Glumetza out of the reach of children, and store it in a safe place to prevent misuse.
