Glucophage

Other names: Metformin, Fortamet, Riomet, Glumetza, Glucophage XR.

Commonly prescribed for: Glucophage can be used alone or combined with other medications, such as insulin for treating type 2 diabetes. This medication can also be used for controlling the quantity of sugar present in your blood. It is commonly used with other medications.

How to take it: Glucophage is available in the form of a tablet, and as a long-acting tablet to be taken via mouth. The long-acting tablet is normally taken once every day along with evening meal. The long-acting tablet is generally taken 2 to 3 times every day along with meals. Do not chew or crush the long-acting tablets, instead swallow the tablets entirely. Take this medication as prescribed, around the same time daily.

How it works: This medication works reduce the quantity of sugar made by the liver. It helps your body to respond to its own insulin in order to make insulin receptors sensitive.

Side effects: Common side effects include shakiness, clumsy or jerky movements, nail changes, diarrhea, flushing in the skin, bloating, runny nose, stomach pain, sneezing, constipation, heartburn, dizziness or lightheadedness, hunger, sweating, pale skin, nervousness or irritability, weakness, sudden changes in behavior, and tingling around the mouth. Some serious side effects include chest pain, decreased consciousness, upset stomach and vomiting, and breath that smell fruity.