Glucophage (Metformin)

Name: Glucophage
Brand: Sanofi Aventis
SKU: 0509
Availability: InStock

Type

Product

Manufacturer

Country

Dosage

Qty-Price (USD)

Type:

Product: Glucophage

Manufacturer: Sanofi Aventis

Country: Canada

Dosage: 500 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Glucophage

Manufacturer: Merck

Country: United Kingdom

Dosage: 500 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Generic Equivalent of Glucophage

Type

Product

Manufacturer

Country

Dosage

Qty-Price (USD)

Type:

Product: Metformin

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: Canada

Dosage: 500 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Metformin Oral Solution

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: United Kingdom

Dosage: 500 mg/150 ml

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Metformin

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: Canada

Dosage: 850 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Metformin

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: Canada

Dosage: 1000 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Glucophage Information

medically reviewed by Carol Hou (BSc. Pharm) on August 20, 2025.

A licensed pharmacist (Licensed Community Pharmacies Directory | College of Pharmacists of British Columbia) with over 20 years of experience in medication management, specifically medication safety, she has reviewed the information for accuracy and completeness.

Glucophage and Metformin Hydrochloride at CanadaPharmacyOnline.com

The brand Glucophage, manufactured by Merck and Sanofi Aventis, is available in many countries worldwide, including Canada and the United Kingdom.

Generic Metformin is sourced from manufacturers that meet applicable regulatory standards. The specific manufacturer of your dispensed medication may vary.

Important Information about Generic Metformin:

Generic metformin contains the same active ingredient as brand-name Glucophage and is required to meet the same safety, effectiveness, and quality standards. This means it is designed to work in the same way as Glucophage. Studies have shown that generic metformin hydrochloride is bioequivalent to brand-name Glucophage, meaning they have similar absorption rates and reach similar concentrations in the bloodstream. However, individual responses to medication can vary due to factors such as metabolism, genetics, and other health conditions.

For more information about generic drug approval and bioequivalence, you can visit the FDA website: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/generic-drugs/generic-drug-facts.

Dosage:

The brand name Glucophage is available in 500 mg oral tablets.

The generic metformin hydrochloride is available in different strengths and forms (at this pharmacy), including those listed below. Availability may vary depending on the manufacturer and market.
• 500 mg oral tablets
• 850 mg oral tablets
• 1000 mg oral tablets
• 500 mg/ 150 ml oral solution

Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose based on your individual needs and medical conditions.

Usage:

Glucophage (metformin hydrochloride) is an oral medication mainly used to manage type 2 diabetes in adults, often as a first-line treatment alongside diet and exercise. It can be combined with other medicines to treat type 2 diabetes in both adults and children over 10 years old. Glucophage is approved for treating type 2 diabetes, but is not a standard treatment for type 1 diabetes. It may be part of a comprehensive treatment plan, which includes insulin and lifestyle adjustments. Diabetes is more common in adults over 40 and those who are overweight.

Mechanism of Action:
Glucophage (metformin) helps control blood-sugar levels. It decreases the amount of glucose absorbed from your food and the amount of glucose made by your liver, especially between meals and overnight. It also makes your body's cells, like those in your muscles, more sensitive to insulin, allowing them to take up sugar from your blood more effectively. Finally, it can reduce the amount of sugar your body absorbs from food in your intestines. These combined actions help lower blood sugar without typically causing it to drop too low when used alone, as it improves your body's natural sugar regulation. Beyond diabetes, it's frequently used off-label for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to improve insulin resistance and regulate hormones, and sometimes for diabetes prevention or modest weight loss.

Take Glucophage exactly as your doctor prescribes, following the instructions in the product monograph in Canada. Consult your doctor for personalized guidance and safe use.

The information below summarizes some, but not all, potential side effects, risks, and interactions. Before starting Glucophage, it is essential to discuss all possible side effects, risks, and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects:

The information below outlines potential side effects of Glucophage (metformin). It is not an exhaustive list, and individual reactions can vary.

Common side effects – These are common side effects of Glucophage, but others are possible. Contact your doctor promptly if any side effects are persistent, worsening, or concerning, or if you experience any other concerning symptoms.
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Decreased appetite
• Diarrhea (widespread, especially when starting treatment)
• Gas (flatulence)
• Indigestion
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Other Potential Side Effects (less common):
• Abnormal stools
• Chills
• Dizziness
• Fatigue or weakness
• Headache
• Heartburn
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar, mainly when used with other diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas, or with excessive alcohol)
• Muscle pain (myalgia)
• Nail disorder
• Rash
• Sweating increased
• Taste disturbance (altered taste)
• Upper respiratory infection (e.g., cold symptoms)
• Weight loss (can be a beneficial effect, but is also listed as a side effect)

Serious Side Effects: These are rare but potentially severe side effects. Seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services if you experience any of the following:
• Lactic Acidosis: This is the most serious and very rare side effect of Glucophage, caused by a dangerous buildup of lactic acid in the blood. Symptoms can be subtle and develop rapidly. If you notice any of these signs, stop taking Glucophage and seek emergency care immediately:
o Abdominal or stomach discomfort, severe diarrhea, or decreased appetite
o Dizziness, light-headedness, or a cold feeling
o Fast or shallow breathing
o Slow or irregular heartbeat
o Unusual muscle pain or cramping
o Unusual sleepiness, tiredness, or weakness
• Liver Problems: These are very rare but serious. Be aware of symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, or severe stomach pain.
• Severe Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): This is a risk primarily when Glucophage is taken with other diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas. Symptoms of severe low blood sugar are a medical emergency:
o Confusion or disorientation
o Seizures or unconsciousness
o Severe weakness
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency (Amenia): Long-term use of Glucophage can lead to low Vitamin B12 levels. Symptoms may be subtle and include unusual tiredness, pale skin, or weakness. This is typically managed with supplementation under a doctor’s care.

Contraindications:

The following is not an exhaustive list of contraindications. Before starting Glucophage, it is crucial to discuss all your medical conditions, past and present, and all medications you are taking with your doctor or pharmacist.

You should not take Glucophage (metformin) if you have any of the following conditions:
• A serious buildup of acid in your blood, which can happen with uncontrolled diabetes (diabetic ketoacidosis).
• A known severe allergy to metformin or any of its ingredients.
• Severe kidney disease. A simple blood test will tell you if your kidneys are healthy enough for this medication.

Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, past and present, before starting Glucophage. This is crucial because certain conditions can affect whether Glucophage is right for you. These conditions may include, but are not limited to:
• Acute illness (e.g., severe diarrhea, vomiting, fever, or any condition causing dehydration), as this can worsen kidney function and increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Alcoholism or excessive alcohol intake, as this increases the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Cardiovascular disorders, including acute congestive heart failure, heart attack, or unstable heart conditions, due to an increased risk of lactic acidosis.
• Hepatic impairment (liver disease), as the liver plays a role in clearing lactate, and impairment can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Iodinated contrast imaging procedures (e.g., X-rays or scans using dye injected into your blood), which may require temporary discontinuation of metformin due to potential kidney effects.
• Older adults (generally over 65 years) are more likely to have reduced kidney function, requiring careful monitoring and potential dosage adjustments.
• Risk factors for lactic acidosis, such as hypoxic states (conditions with low oxygen levels in tissues), or other severe acute conditions.
• Risk factors for vitamin B12 deficiency, as long-term metformin use can be associated with reduced vitamin B12 levels.
• Surgery or other major medical procedures, which may require temporary discontinuation of metformin.
• Type 1 diabetes, Glucophage (metformin) works by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose production in the liver. It's not a substitute for insulin, which is the necessary treatment for Type 1 diabetes.
• Unstable renal function or an eGFR between 30 and 45 mL/min/1.73 m², where initiation is not recommended and existing use requires careful monitoring.
Drug Interactions:
Before taking Glucophage, discuss all potential risks and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist. For complete and up-to-date information, please visit the consumer information | Sanofi.com: https://www.sanofi.com/assets/countries/canada/docs/products/prescription-products/glucophage-pmi-en-260424.pdf.

Provide your doctor with a complete list of all your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, herbal supplements, recreational drugs, or significant dietary changes, as these potentially interact with Glucophage. Glucophage may interact with other medicines, but is not limited to:
• Alcohol (excessive intake): Significantly increases the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious side effect of metformin. It can also increase the risk of low blood sugar.
• Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors: Medications like acetazolamide, dichlorphenamide, methazolamide, or topiramate can increase the risk of lactic acidosis by affecting kidney function and metformin clearance.
• Cationic Drugs that are Renally Eliminated: Medications that are eliminated by the kidneys through tubular secretion (e.g., amiloride, cimetidine, digoxin, morphine, procainamide, quinidine, quinine, ranolazine, trimethoprim, vancomycin) can potentially increase metformin levels in the blood, raising the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or dexamethasone, can raise blood sugar levels, potentially counteracting the blood-sugar-lowering effects of metformin.
• Diuretics (Thiazide and Loop Diuretics): "Water pills" like hydrochlorothiazide or furosemide can increase blood sugar levels, potentially making metformin less effective.
• Dolutegravir: An antiretroviral medication that can increase metformin levels, raising the risk of side effects.
• Hormonal Contraceptives (Estrogens and Progestins): Can sometimes raise blood sugar levels, potentially reducing metformin's effectiveness.
• Iodinated Contrast Agents (for imaging procedures): Metformin should be temporarily stopped before or during an imaging procedure using iodinated contrast dye, as these dyes can temporarily impair kidney function, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Isoniazid: An antibiotic that can affect blood sugar levels.
• Levothyroxine: Metformin can potentially decrease the absorption of levothyroxine (thyroid hormone), affecting thyroid levels.
• Niacin (Vitamin B3): Can increase blood sugar levels, potentially making metformin less effective.
• Other Diabetes Medications: When taken with other medications that lower blood sugar, such as insulin or sulfonylureas (e.g., glipizide, glyburide) and meglitinides (e.g., repaglinide), metformin significantly increases the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Dosage adjustments of these concomitant medications are often necessary.
• Phenothiazines: A class of antipsychotic medications that can raise blood sugar levels.
• Rifampin: An antibiotic that can affect metformin levels.
• Thyroid Products: Can affect blood sugar levels, potentially altering metformin's effectiveness.
• Vitamin B12 Supplements: Long-term use of metformin can sometimes lead to decreased vitamin B12 levels. While this is not a direct interaction in that one drug does not affect the other's action, it's an essential consideration for supplementation.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
Glucophage (metformin hydrochloride) is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While insulin is often a primary treatment for diabetes in pregnancy, metformin can be a suitable alternative or addition, as studies indicate it can help control blood sugar without increasing the risk of congenital disabilities. For breastfeeding mothers, tiny amounts of metformin pass into breast milk. Still, these levels are not expected to harm the infant, making it a preferred option for managing diabetes during this time. Always discuss your specific health needs and treatment plan with your doctor.
Use in Children:
Glucophage (metformin hydrochloride) is approved for use in children and adolescents aged 10 years and older to treat type 2 diabetes. It's often a starting medication for them, alongside diet and exercise, and is considered a safe and effective way to manage their blood sugar. For children younger than 10, a doctor would need to determine if metformin is appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions about Glucophage at Canada Pharmacy Online:

Why is Glucophage more affordable in Canada than in the United States?
Prescription drug prices, including Glucophage, are generally lower in Canada than in the US due to a combination of factors, primarily government price regulations, differing market dynamics, and other economic considerations. In Canada, provincial and federal governments negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies, which often results in lower costs compared to the U.S., where market forces play a more significant role. For more information, see the FAQs on Prescription Drug Importation from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF): https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/faqs-on-prescription-drug-importation/
How much is the shipping?
Our shipping fee is a flat rate of $10.00 per order. Our pharmacy focuses on offering you the lowest prices on high-quality products.
How do I order from your pharmacy? Ordering from us is very simple. You can purchase online or call Customer Service at 1866.920.3784; for more information or to learn about the ordering process, visit our How to Order page.
Is there a limit on how many Glucophage tablets I am allowed to order at one time?
CanadaPharmacyOnline.com can only dispense a maximum of a three-month Glucophage supply at once, per your doctor's prescription.
Can I buy Glucophage over the counter from you?
No, Glucophage requires a valid prescription from your doctor. We do not sell this product without a valid prescription.
Do you ship to the United States?
Yes, we do. It usually takes 7 to 18 business days to receive your order from our pharmacy.
Is there a generic for Glucophage?
Yes, there is a generic alternative for this product, called Metformin.
How long does it take Glucophage to start working?
Metformin begins to lower blood sugar within 48 hours (or a few days), but the full effect and a significant drop in your HbA1c may take several weeks to a few months. Consistent use is key to achieving the best result (source).
What is the difference between Glucophage and Glucophage XR?
Metformin and Metformin ER are not the same. Metformin is the immediate-release version, while Metformin ER is the extended-release version. Metformin is approved to treat type 2 diabetes in adults and children aged 10 years and older, while Metformin ER is only approved to treat type 2 diabetes in adults (source).
Blog Posts:
Insulin Resistance: Are You at Risk for Developing Diabetes?
Four Diabetic Friendly Recipes to Enhance Your Daily Breakfast Routine
Latest News:
Childhood obesity and insulin resistance is correlated with gut microbiome serum protein: an integrated metagenomic and proteomic analysis (article published on July 1, 2025)

Similar Drugs in the category of Diabetic Medications and Products:
Jardiance Farxiga Rybelsus Januvia Tradjenta
The information on this page is sourced from independent third parties contracted by CanadaPharmacyOnline. While we cannot guarantee its medical accuracy, we strongly recommend consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding medications or medical conditions.

Reviews From Real Customers