Glucophage 500mg Tablet

Glucophage 500mg Tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride 500mg, a first-line biguanide antidiabetic medicine used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Glucophage is the original Merck-manufactured brand of metformin and is widely prescribed in Malaysia, either on its own or together with other antidiabetic medicines or insulin, to help control blood glucose levels.

As a prescription-only medicine, Glucophage 500mg Tablet requires a doctor’s assessment and prescription before it can be dispensed. It is typically prescribed for adults (and in some cases children) with type 2 diabetes who have not achieved adequate blood sugar control through diet and exercise alone, and ongoing monitoring by a doctor is important to track blood glucose response, kidney function, and overall suitability of the dose.

Metformin lowers blood glucose primarily by reducing hepatic glucose production (decreasing the liver’s release of stored sugar), decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving peripheral insulin sensitivity so that muscle and fat cells take up and use glucose more effectively. Unlike sulfonylureas, it does not stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin, so it carries a low risk of causing hypoglycaemia when used alone.

Glucophage 500mg Tablet should only be taken according to a doctor’s prescription, following the dose, frequency, and duration advised. It is usually taken with or immediately after meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, and the tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water rather than crushed or chewed, unless a doctor advises otherwise.

Dosing is individualised by the prescribing doctor, typically starting at a low dose such as 500mg once or twice daily with meals, and gradually increased over one to two weeks based on blood glucose response and tolerability, up to a maximum daily dose determined by the doctor. Patients should never adjust their own dose or stop treatment without medical advice, as this can affect blood sugar control.

Glucophage 500mg Tablet is generally valid for up to 36 months from the date of manufacture when stored correctly and unopened; the exact expiry date is printed on the blister strip and outer carton and should be checked before each use.

Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture, keeping tablets in their original blister packaging until needed. Keep out of reach and sight of children, and discard any tablets that are damaged, discoloured, or past their expiry date.

• Known hypersensitivity to metformin or any ingredient in the tablet
• Severe renal impairment or acute kidney injury
• Conditions predisposing to tissue hypoxia, such as severe heart failure or respiratory failure
• Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
• Severe liver impairment
• Should be temporarily stopped before procedures involving iodinated contrast media, as advised by a doctor

• Alcohol may increase the risk of lactic acidosis and should be limited or avoided
• Iodinated contrast media used in imaging studies can increase the risk of kidney impairment and lactic acidosis when combined with metformin
• Certain diuretics, corticosteroids, and other medicines that raise blood glucose may reduce metformin’s effectiveness
• Cimetidine and some other medicines can increase metformin blood levels
• Should be used cautiously with other antidiabetic medicines due to increased risk of hypoglycaemia when combined

• Take Glucophage with or immediately after meals to reduce stomach upset.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew it unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• Limit or avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis when combined with metformin.
• Keep all scheduled blood tests to check your kidney function and vitamin B12 levels, especially with long-term use.
• Tell your doctor before any scan or procedure involving iodinated contrast dye, as metformin may need to be temporarily stopped.
• Do not double up on a missed dose — simply take your next dose at the usual time.
• Seek urgent medical attention if you notice unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, or severe tiredness, as these may signal lactic acidosis.
• Store tablets in their original blister packaging, away from moisture and heat.

Glucophage 500mg Tablet is a prescription-only medicine in Malaysia, and DoctorOnCall requires an online medical consultation before it can be dispensed, so a doctor can confirm suitability and monitor kidney function and blood glucose control over time. Patients on long-term therapy should have periodic blood tests as advised by their doctor, and should seek medical attention immediately if symptoms such as unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, or severe tiredness develop, as these may indicate lactic acidosis.