Glucophage (Metformin)

Question 1

Glucophage (Metformin) class

Answer 1

Biguanide

Question 2

Glucophage (Metformin) MOA

Answer 2

Decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, & improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake & utilization.
Does not cause hypoglycemia.
Low protein binding

Question 3

Glucophage (Metformin) dosage

Answer 3

500 mg BID or 850 mg QD
Max= 2550 mg/day

Peds: 500 mg BID (max 2000 mg/day)

Question 4

Glucophage (Metformin) characteristics

Answer 4

O:?

P: 2.5 hrs

D: ?

Question 5

Glucophage (Metformin) E/M

Answer 5

Does NOT undergo hepatic met or biliary ex.

Excreted unchanged in urine w/in first 24 hrs.

Plasma elim h/l: 6.2 hrs; Blood elim h/l: 17.6 hrs

Question 6

Glucophage (Metformin) considerations

Answer 6

Should be d/c’d when pts have food & fluid intake restricted.
Alcohol increases effects.
Does NOT cause hypoglycemia but pts may be hypoglycemic in caloric deficit