The American Diabetes Association ® states that in 2015 there were 30.3 million Americans with diabetes. The statistics also show that 25.2% of Americans age 65 and older are either already diagnosed or yet to be diagnosed.
Glumetza (a brand name for extended release metformin hydrochloride) is a medication used by type 2 diabetics to help manage blood sugar. It restores the body’s correct response to insulin naturally produced in your body while at the same time decreasing the amount of sugar produced by our liver.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. You have type 2 diabetes if your body does not use the insulin in your body properly – leading to what is called insulin resistance.
Glumetza is an oral medication that comes in a pill form. It is usually prescribed to be taken once a day with a meal, however the dosage is based upon your personal needs, how you respond to the medication and any other medications you may also be taking. In order to minimize gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and diarrhea, Glumetza is often prescribed at a lower dose at first and then it is gradually increased,
It is important to take Glumetza with food to ensure optimal delivery and absorption, at the same time every day and to take it exactly as prescribed. You should not stop taking Glumetza without your doctor’s orders.
Although prescription Glumetza works to help lower your blood sugar, hypoglycemia does not occur in patients receiving metformin alone under usual circumstances. Hypoglycemia could occur in patients who are not eating enough calories, exercising strenuously, or taking Glumetza with other glucose lowering medications or alcohol.
Glumetza is manufactured by Valeant Canada and is available in two doses:
500 mg tablet (white, oval shaped, marked “M 500”)
1000 mg tablet (white, oval shaped, marked “M 1000”)
Today, thanks to medications such as Glumetza, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper diet and exercise, individuals living with Type 2 diabetes can get better control over their blood sugars and live a longer and healthier life with fewer complications than ever before.
Want to read more? If you found this article helpful, you may enjoy our other articles including:
How to save money on prescription medication
Glucophage vs. Metformin – What is the difference?
Better Type 2 Blood Sugar Management with Januvia
