Drug Study Metformin

(Glucophage)
Generic Name:Metformin (met-formin)
Brand Name:Glucophage, Glucophage XR
Classifications: hormone and synthetic substitute; antidiabetic; biguanide
Pregnancy Category: B
Availability :
500 mg, 850 mg tab-lets; 500 mg sustained release
Actions
Biguanide oral hypoglycemic agent. Unlike sulfonylureas, biguanides do not stimulate
the release of insulin from the beta cells of the pancreas. Mechanism of action is
thought to be due to both increasing the binding of insulin to its receptor and
potentiating insulin action.
Therapeutic effects
Improves tissue sensitivity to insulin, increases glucose transport into skeletal muscles
and fat, and suppresses gluconeogenesis and hepatic production of glucose, thus
lowering blood glucose levels.
Uses:
Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in patients not controlled with diet alone. May be
used with an oral sulfonylurea.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to metformin; renal, hepatic, or cardiopulmonary insufficiency;
alcoholism; concurrent infection.
Route & Dosage

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

adult: PO Start with 500 mg q.d. to t.i.d. or 850 mg q.d. to b.i.d. with meals, may
increase by 500850 mg/d every 13 wk (max: 2550 mg/d); or start with 500 mg
sustained release with p.m. meal, may increase by 500 mg/d at p.m. meal q wk (max:
2000 mg/d)
Administration
Oral

Withhold metformin 48 h before and 48 h after receiving IV contrast dye.

Give with or shortly after main meals.

Make dose increment, if needed, at 23-wk intervals.

Consider reduction of dose with concurrent cimetidine therapy.

Store at 1530 C (5986 F).

Adverse effects
CNS:Headache, dizziness, agitation, fatigue.
Nursing implications
Assessment & Drug Effects

Lab tests: Obtain baseline and periodic kidney and liver function tests; drug
contraindicated in the presence of renal or hepatic insufficiency.

Monitor blood glucose and HbA1C, and lipid profile periodically.

Monitor known or suspected alcoholics carefully for decreased liver function.

Monitor cardiopulmonary status throughout course of therapy;

cardiopulmonary insufficiency may predispose to lactic acidosis.

Patient & Family Education

Be aware that hypoglycemia is not a risk when drug is taken in recommended

therapeutic doses unless combined with other drugs which lower blood
glucose.

Report to physician immediately S&S of infection, which increase the risk of

lactic acidosis (e.g., abdominal pains, nausea and vomiting anorexia).

Do not breast feed while taking this drug without consulting physician.