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What is Glucophage?

Glucophage (generic name metformin) is a drug used with diet and exercise to help reduce blood sugar levels in people with type 2 (adult onset) diabetes. It may also be used to treat polycystic ovary syndrome, a hormonal condition in women. Glucophage belongs to a class of medicines called biguanides.

Glucophage slows the release of sugar from the liver and improves the muscles’ ability to use insulin. It may be used alone or in combination with another class of diabetes drugs called sulfonylureas (glyburide and glipizide) or insulin. Glucophage does not affect insulin production, so it doesn't cause low blood sugar (a potentially dangerous condition also known as hypoglycemia).

Your doctor will prescribe the best dose for you.

Sources:
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2006.
Glucophage Product Information, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, June 2006.
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2006.

This answer prepared 8/27/2000.
This information updated 1/25/2007