Glucophage 500 mg contains metformin hydrochloride in a conventional film-coated tablet. This page concerns the immediate-release product, not Glucophage SR or another extended-release formulation. The reviewed UK authorisation covers type 2 diabetes when diet and exercise are insufficient, in adults and children aged 10 years and older. It can be used alone or with other diabetes medicines according to the clinical situation. Formulations and national authorisations should not be treated as interchangeable instructions.<\/p>\n
Nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort and loss of appetite are common early problems. Persistent symptoms deserve review rather than an unplanned change in treatment. Long-term metformin can reduce vitamin B12, particularly with higher exposure, longer use or other deficiency risks. New pins and needles, unusual tiredness, a sore red tongue or pallor may justify testing; these symptoms can also have other causes. UK safety advice recommends treating confirmed deficiency and considering periodic monitoring in people at risk, rather than automatically stopping tolerated metformin.<\/p>\n
Metformin-associated lactic acidosis is rare but serious. Kidney impairment, dehydration, severe infection, oxygen shortage and excessive alcohol increase concern. Severe weakness, muscle pain, unusual drowsiness, abdominal symptoms or breathing difficulty require urgent assessment. Kidney function is checked before and during treatment. Tell the clinical team before surgery or imaging with iodinated contrast, because a temporary interruption and a kidney reassessment may be required. The timing depends on the procedure and local product information.<\/p>\n
NSAIDs, diuretics and other medicines affecting kidney function need careful review, particularly during illness or dehydration. Cimetidine, dolutegravir and certain other transporter-inhibiting medicines can increase metformin exposure. Insulin and sulfonylureas may add hypoglycaemia risk even though metformin alone usually does not cause it. The UK label permits consideration during pregnancy when clinically needed; breastfeeding advice differs across authorities and requires an individual discussion. This is a summary of cited UK information with supportive US metformin safety information, not a personal dose or switching plan.<\/p>\n
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