Glocophage XR

Glucophage XR is an oral diabetes medication in Extended Release formula containing Metformin HCl as its active ingredient. It belongs to the Biguanide drug class and is manufactured by Merck as the originator brand.

Metformin works primarily by reducing hepatic glucose production — the main cause of elevated blood sugar in type 2 diabetes. It also improves insulin sensitivity in muscle and fat cells and reduces intestinal glucose absorption.

The XR formula is designed for slow drug release over several hours, reducing gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhoea and nausea — the main drawbacks of immediate-release Metformin. This allows convenient once-daily dosing.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Metformin is the first-line treatment for all type 2 diabetes patients, regardless of body weight, per ADA (American Diabetes Association) guidelines.

Prediabetes: Used to prevent progression to full diabetes, especially in those with high BMI who don't respond to lifestyle changes.

PCOS (off-label): Used alongside other treatments for polycystic ovary syndrome to help regulate hormones and improve fertility.

Glucophage XR advantages: Extended Release formula allows once-daily dosing and reduces diarrhoea and nausea commonly seen with IR formula — ideal for those who cannot tolerate GI side effects.

Starting dose: Take 500 mg once daily with dinner. Swallow whole — do not crush, chew, or split.

Dose adjustment: Your doctor will gradually increase by 500 mg every 1–2 weeks until blood sugar is well controlled. Maximum dose is 2000 mg/day.

Why take with food: Improves absorption and reduces nausea and diarrhoea. Dinner is recommended as it's usually the largest meal.

If you miss a dose: Skip the missed dose and take the next one at the usual time. Never take a double dose.

Note: You may see the tablet shell in stool — this is normal as the XR shell doesn't dissolve. The medication has already been fully released.

Common side effects (less frequent with XR vs. IR):

• Diarrhoea — most common but significantly less than IR formula
• Nausea, vomiting
• Abdominal pain, bloating
• Metallic taste

Serious side effects (stop and seek medical attention):

• Lactic acidosis — Very rare but life-threatening. Symptoms: rapid breathing, severe muscle pain, severe diarrhoea, extreme fatigue, unusual drowsiness
• Vitamin B12 deficiency — Long-term Metformin use may reduce B12 absorption, causing anaemia and peripheral neuropathy. Regular B12 monitoring recommended

Tips to reduce diarrhoea: Start low, increase gradually. Always take with food. Avoid high-fat meals. XR formula is usually better tolerated than IR.

Do not use:

• eGFR below 30 mL/min (severe kidney impairment) — do not start; discontinue if currently taking
• Severe liver disease
• Acidosis (metabolic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis)
• Allergy to Metformin

Use with caution:

• Stop 48 hours before contrast media injection — contrast dye may temporarily impair kidney function, increasing lactic acidosis risk
• eGFR 30–45 — do not start new; may continue cautiously if already taking
• Heavy alcohol use — increases lactic acidosis risk
• Elderly patients — monitor kidney function regularly
• Pregnancy — consult doctor; may need to switch to insulin

Glucophage XR vs. Glucophage (IR): Same active ingredient (Metformin) by Merck. Glucophage XR is Extended Release — once daily with less diarrhoea. Glucophage IR requires 2–3 daily doses with more GI side effects but may be more affordable.

Glucophage XR vs. generic Metformin: Same active ingredient. Glucophage XR is the originator by Merck at a higher price. Generic Metformin is available from various manufacturers at lower cost with equivalent efficacy.

Glucophage XR vs. SGLT2 Inhibitors: SGLT2i (e.g., Dapagliflozin, Empagliflozin) are newer diabetes drugs with weight loss and cardio-renal protection benefits but at much higher cost. Metformin remains the first-line choice and can be combined with SGLT2i.

Metformin starts lowering blood sugar from day one. The XR formula releases the drug over 10–16 hours after taking.

Short-term results: Post-meal blood sugar begins decreasing within the first week.

Long-term results: HbA1c (3-month average blood sugar) typically drops by 1–1.5% after 3 months of continuous use — a clinically significant reduction.

Doctors usually check HbA1c every 3 months to assess control. If targets aren't met, dose adjustment or additional medication may be needed.

Glucophage XR is a pharmacist-dispensed medication. You can order online from Intimo Life.

Can I buy Glucophage XR online?

Yes. Order through Intimo Life — select the product, consult with a licensed pharmacist online, and receive your medication at home.

Do I need a prescription?

A doctor's prescription is not required, but the medication must be dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. At Intimo Life, our pharmacist will review your symptoms and health history to confirm suitability before shipping.

How does Intimo Life ship orders?

We deliver nationwide in Thailand with discreet packaging — no product names on the outside.