Buy Generic Glucophage Online

Generic Glucophage Information

Introduction

Glucophage is a widely used oral antidiabetic agent whose active ingredient is metformin, a big‑biguanide that lowers blood glucose. It is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and is listed on the Hong Kong Pharmaceutical Registry. The drug is manufactured by several licensed companies worldwide; the most common brand name is Glucophage, while generic versions contain the same metformin salt. In Hong Kong, Glucophage is prescribed as part of the standard diabetes management protocol and is also employed off‑label for conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and pre‑diabetes when lifestyle measures alone are insufficient.

What is Glucophage?

Glucophage is a tablet formulation that delivers the active compound metformin hydrochloride. It belongs to the big‑biguanide class of oral hypoglycaemic agents. Metformin was first introduced in the 195 s and was later re‑formulated as Glucophage by the original developer, Bristol‑Myers Squibb, before generic competition entered the market. The product is available in several strengths (500 mg, 850 mg, 100 mg) and is registered for oral use in adults. Other well‑known metformin‑containing brands include Glumetza, Riomet (oral solution), and Fortamet (extended‑release).

How Glucophage Works

Metformin acts primarily by inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis, thereby reducing the liver’s production of glucose. It also increases peripheral insulin sensitivity, enhancing glucose uptake in muscle and adipose tissue. The drug does not stimulate insulin secretion, which limits the risk of hypoglycaemia when used alone. After oral ingestion, metformin reaches peak plasma concentrations in 2–3 hours and is excreted unchanged by the kidneys; its half‑life is approximately 4.5–6 hours. Because clearance depends on renal function, dose adjustments are required in patients with impaired kidney function.

Conditions Treated with Glucophage

• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM): First‑line therapy for most adults with T2DM in Hong Kong, reducing HbA1c by 1–2 percentage points.
• Prediabetes: Used when lifestyle modification fails to keep fasting glucose < 5.6 mmol/L, to delay progression to T2DM.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Improves insulin resistance and can restore ovulatory cycles in many women.
• Gestational Diabetes (selected cases): Metformin may be continued from pre‑pregnancy use, though obstetric guidance is required.

Epidemiologically, the Hong Kong Diabetes Surveillance Study estimates that over 10 % of adults have diabetes, making metformin‑based regimens a cornerstone of public health management.

Who is Glucophage For?

• Adults with newly diagnosed T2DM who have a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m² and no contraindications to metformin.
• Patients with established T2DM whose HbA1c remains above target despite diet and exercise, provided renal function (eGFR) is ≥ 45 mL/min/1.73 m².
• Women with PCOS who display biochemical hyper‑insulinaemia or irregular menses.
• Individuals with impaired fasting glucose where lifestyle measures alone have not achieved glycaemic control.

Glucophage is not appropriate for:

• Patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²).
• Those with a known hypersensitivity to metformin or other big‑biguanides.
• Pregnant women without obstetric approval, because safety data are limited.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea).
• Metallic taste.
• Mild elevation of serum transaminases.

Rare

• Vitamin B12 deficiency after prolonged therapy.
• Lactic acidosis in patients with severe renal or hepatic disease.

Serious

• Severe lactic acidosis (life‑threatening metabolic acidosis).
• Acute renal failure secondary to dehydration.

Drug–Drug Interactions

• Cimetidine, trimethoprim, and certain diuretics may increase metformin plasma concentrations.
• Iodinated contrast agents used in imaging can precipitate acute kidney injury; metformin should be withheld before and after the procedure per local guidelines.
• Alcohol potentiates the risk of lactic acidosis and should be limited.

Patients should always disclose over‑the‑counter supplements and herbal products, as some (e.g., high‑dose niacin) can affect renal clearance.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Initial dosing: 500 mg once daily with the evening meal; after one week, the dose may be increased to 500 mg twice daily.
• Maximum dose: Up to 200 mg per day, divided into two or three doses. Extended‑release formulations allow once‑daily dosing up to 250 mg.
• Missed dose: Take the missed tablet as soon as remembered, unless it is near the time of the next scheduled dose; do not double‑dose.
• Overdose: Prompt medical evaluation is essential. Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, and lethargy. Hemodialysis can accelerate metformin clearance in severe cases.
• Food and alcohol: Metformin should be taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal irritation. Limit alcohol intake to avoid additive risk of lactic acidosis.
• Comorbidities: Dose reduction is required for eGFR 45–60 mL/min/1.73 m²; discontinuation is advised when eGFR falls below 30 mL/min/1.73 m².

Buying Glucophage from Our Online Pharmacy

Glucophage can be purchased from our online pharmacy in Hong Kong with the following advantages:

• Affordable pricing: Near‑manufacturer cost without markup, making generic metformin an economically sensible option.
• Verified quality: Sourced solely from licensed, reputable overseas suppliers that meet WHO‑GMP standards.
• Guaranteed delivery: Discreet, reliable shipping; express service typically arrives within 7 days, regular airmail within 2–3 weeks.
• Online‑only accessibility: Enables patients who have limited access to local pharmacies or whose insurance plans do not cover the drug to obtain a legitimate product.

Our platform operates as a pharmacy‑broker service, partnering with licensed pharmacies abroad to provide a confidential, privacy‑respectful purchasing experience.

FAQ

• Is Glucophage available in both immediate‑release and extended‑release forms?
  Yes, Glucophage is marketed as an immediate‑release tablet (500 mg, 850 mg, 100 mg) and as an extended‑release tablet (Glucophage XR) that allows once‑daily dosing up to 250 mg.

• How should Glucophage be stored in Hong Kong’s humid climate?
  Keep the tablets in their original blister pack, stored at room temperature (15–30 °C) away from moisture and direct sunlight. Avoid bathroom cabinets where humidity is high.

• Can I travel internationally with Glucophage tablets?
  Yes, carry the medication in its original packaging with a copy of the prescription or physician’s letter. For trips longer than a month, bring a sufficient supply and check the destination country’s import regulations.

• Does Glucophage contain any allergens such as lactose or gluten?
  The immediate‑release tablet contains lactose and soybean oil; the extended‑release version is lactose‑free but may contain other excipients. Review the product leaflet for a full list of inactive ingredients.

• Are there any differences in formulation between the US, EU, and Asian markets?
  The active ingredient (metformin HCl) is identical worldwide, but tablet size, coating agents, and filler composition can vary by manufacturer and region. These differences do not affect therapeutic efficacy.

• What is the history of metformin’s development?
  Metformin was derived from the plant Galega officinalis (French lilac) in the 192s, but its antidiabetic properties were not clinically recognized until the 195s. It became the first‑line therapy for T2DM after large outcome studies in the 199s demonstrated cardiovascular safety.

• How does metformin compare to older drugs such as sulfonylureas?
  Unlike sulfonylureas, metformin does not stimulate pancreatic insulin secretion, resulting in a lower risk of hypoglycaemia. It also aids modest weight loss, whereas sulfonylureas often cause weight gain.

• Can Glucophage affect laboratory test results?
  Metformin may cause a mild, reversible increase in serum lactate levels, but this is usually clinically insignificant. It does not typically interfere with standard biochemical panels.

• Is metformin safe for patients with heart failure?
  Current guidelines consider metformin safe for stable, compensated heart failure when renal function is adequate. Unstable heart failure or severe renal impairment warrants avoidance.

• What should I do if I develop a metallic taste while taking Glucophage?
  The metallic taste is a common, benign side effect that often improves with continued use. Taking the tablet with food and a full glass of water may lessen the sensation. If it persists, discuss dose timing or formulation change with your clinician.

Glossary

eGFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)

A calculation that estimates kidney function based on serum creatinine, age, sex, and body size. It guides dosing adjustments for renally cleared drugs like metformin.

Lactic Acidosis

A rare but serious condition where lactate builds up in the blood, lowering pH. Metformin‑associated lactic acidosis is most common in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment.

Big‑biguanide

The drug class to which metformin belongs; it describes the chemical structure featuring two linked guanidine groups, which confer the drug’s glucose‑lowering properties.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin)

A laboratory measurement reflecting average blood glucose over the preceding two to three months. It is the primary marker used to assess diabetes control.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Glucophage is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Glucophage for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.