Glucophage XR Side Effects

Glucophage XR is a prescription medication most commonly used to treat Type 2 diabetes. It helps decrease sugar production in the liver and is absorbed in the intestines, which helps diabetics control their blood glucose level. Glucophage is a brand-name drug; the generic equivalent is metformin hydrochloride. It is an extended-release tablet that is designed to work over a long period of time.

Non-Serious Side Effects

• Some people taking Glucophage XR may experience the following side effects of the drug: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, gas, upset stomach, headaches and a metallic taste in the mouth. These side effects are not serious and are no cause for concern. However, if they become bothersome, you should report them to your doctor.

Serious Side Effects

• In rare cases, people taking Glucophage XR may experience a more serious side effect that could indicate a problem requiring medical attention. If you experience any of the following, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately:
  fast breathing or difficulty breathing, chest pain, a slow or irregular heartbeat, fever or chills, a persistent sore throat, muscle pain or weakness, and a general feeling of malaise.

Lactic Acidosis

• In very rare cases, Glucophage XR can cause a serious and potentially life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis. The condition more commonly develops in people who have kidney or liver problems or heart failure along with diabetes. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include muscle pain or weakness, dizziness or lightheadedness, fatigue, and unusual stomach discomfort. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

  The elderly are more at risk of developing lactic acidosis, so Glucophage XR should not be taken by people older than 80. If you have a condition that puts you at increased risk of the condition, you doctor may order regular lab tests to be certain that lactic acidosis is not developing.