Metformin
Buy Metformin XR Online from Canadian Pharmacy
Metformin XR is an extended-release medication for adults with Type 2 diabetes. It improves glycemic control by lowering hepatic glucose production and increasing insulin sensitivity. It offers once-daily dosing for better adherence and has a lower risk of hypoglycemia. Common side effects include diarrhea and nausea. It is weight-neutral, may improve lipid profiles, and has a well-established safety profile with potential protective effects against cardiovascular disease.
Product Overview
Metformin XR is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults. It improves blood sugar control by reducing glucose secretion in the liver and boosting insulin sensitivity. The extended-release formulation ensures a gradual release, providing a smoother glucose-lowering effect and once-daily dosing, which can enhance patient adherence. Compared to immediate-release Metformin, it has a lower risk of gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea or nausea.
In addition to its primary benefits, Metformin XR is typically weight-neutral or may even promote modest weight loss. It may also positively impact lipid profiles by lowering LDL and triglycerides. The medication is generally considered safe and inexpensive and has a well-established safety profile based on decades of clinical use. Evidence suggests potential protective effects against certain cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and a metallic taste. It is essential to take the medication as prescribed, eat it with an evening meal, and stay hydrated. Patients should consult their healthcare provider regarding any side effects or concerns and avoid excessive alcohol intake to reduce the risk of lactic acidosis.
Uses of Metformin XR
- Treats type 2 diabetes in adults
Benefits of Metformin XR
- The extended-release formulation provides a gradual release for a smoother glucose-lowering effect
- Lower risk of hypoglycemia as compared to some other antidiabetic medications
- It may have beneficial effects on lipid profiles by reducing LDL and triglycerides
- Established safety profile with decades of clinical experience
- Potential protective effects against certain cancers and cardiovascular disease
Side Effects of Metformin XR
Common side effects of Metformin XR include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea/vomiting
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Metallic taste in my mouth
- Flatulence (gas)
- Headache
- Asthenia (weakness)
[Note: This list is not exhaustive; if you notice any other symptoms not mentioned above, consult your doctor immediately.]
Metformin XR Dosage
Forms & Strengths
Metformin XR comes in the following forms and strengths:
Immediate-Release Tablets:
- 500mg
- 850mg
- 1000mg
Extended-Release Tablets:
- 500mg
- 750mg
- 1000mg
Oral Solution:
- 100mg/mL (Riomet)
Extended-Release Oral Suspension:
- 47.31g/473mL per bottle (Riomet XR)
- After reconstitution, it is 500mg/5mL
Recommended Dosages
For treatment of type 2 diabetes:
- Initial dose: 500 mg once daily with evening meal
- Can increase in 500 mg increments every 1-2 weeks as tolerated
- Maximum dose: 2000 mg once daily
Specific populations:
- Elderly: Start with a lower dose of 500 mg once daily due to potential decreased renal function
- Renal impairment (eGFR 30-60 mL/min): 500 mg once daily
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min): Metformin is contraindicated
How to Take Metformin XR?
- Take once daily with an evening meal to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
- Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or split it
- Take with a full glass of water
- It can be taken with or without food, but food may minimize stomach upset
- Dosage depends on blood glucose control and kidney function
- The starting dose of Metformin XR is 500 mg once daily, which can increase by 500 mg weekly up to 2000 mg per day
- Take medication at the same time each day for best results
- Do not discontinue abruptly. Taper dosage to avoid hyperglycemia
- Stay well hydrated while taking Metformin XR
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Metformin XR, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose. In such a case, skip the missed dosage and take your next dose at the regular time. Refrain from doubling up on doses to catch up.
[Note: Do not simultaneously take two doses of Metformin XR to compensate for a missed dose. This can increase your chances of experiencing medication side effects.]
Overdose
In case of a Metformin overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include lactic acidosis, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and abnormal breathing. Prompt treatment is crucial, as Metformin overdose can lead to potentially life-threatening complications.
[Note: If you notice you have taken too much medication, call your local emergency number immediately.]
How Does Metformin XR Work?
Metformin XR is an extended-release formulation that decreases hepatic glucose production, improves insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues, and increases glucose uptake by cells. It does not stimulate insulin secretion, making it suitable for patients with diminished beta-cell function. The extended-release formulation provides a more gradual release of Metformin over time.
Important Safety Precautions
- Monitor for signs of lactic acidosis (muscle pain, trouble breathing, unusual sleepiness, etc.)
- Avoid excessive alcohol intake
- Have kidney function monitored regularly
- Temporarily discontinue before certain procedures involving contrast dyes
- Use caution in elderly patients and those with hepatic impairment
- May cause vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use
- Avoid in patients with severe renal impairment
- Inform the provider about all other medications being taken
- It may result in gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation to prevent hyperglycemia
Storage
- Store this medication at room temperature (20°C to 25°C or 68°F to 77°F)
- Keep it in a tightly closed container
- Protect from moisture
- Do not freeze
- Keep out of reach of children
- Discard unused medicine after the expiration date
Metformin XR Interactions
- Cationic drugs (e.g., amiloride, digoxin, morphine, procainamide, quinidine, quinine, ranitidine, triamterene, trimethoprim, vancomycin) – may increase Metformin concentrations.on
- Diuretics – may increase risk of lactic acidosis
- ACE inhibitors – may increase the risk of lactic acidosis
- Contrast dyes – may impair renal function and increase Metformin concentrations
- Alcohol – Metformin XR may increase the risk of lactic acidosis
- Other antidiabetic drugs – may increase the risk of hypoglycemia
- Steroids – may increase blood glucose levels
- Phenytoin – may decrease Metformin efficacy
- Iodinated contrast agents – stop Metformin temporarily
- Anticholinergic drugs – may increase gastric emptying rate and alter Metformin absorption
[Note: This list of interactions isn’t complete. Talk to your doctor if you notice any interaction with food, over-the-counter drugs, prescriptions, or supplements.]
Metformin XR Alternatives
- Glucotrol (glipizide)
- Micronase, DiaBeta (glyburide)
- Amaryl (glimepiride)
- Prandin (repaglinide)
- Starlix (nateglinide)
- Actos (pioglitazone)
- Avandia (rosiglitazone)
- Januvia (sitagliptin)
- Onglyza (saxagliptin)
- Tradjenta (linagliptin)
- Invokana (canagliflozin)
- Farxiga (dapagliflozin)
- Jardiance (empagliflozin)
- Byetta (exenatide)
- Victoza (liraglutide)
- Ozempic (semaglutide)
- Precose (acarbose)
- Glyset (miglitol)
- Humulin R, Novolin R (Regular human insulin)
- Humulin N, Novolin N (NPH insulin)
- Humalog, Novolog, Lantus, Levemir (Insulin analogs)
[Note: Your healthcare provider will choose which Metformin XR alternative is best for you. Taking or consuming them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Metformin XR and Metformin IR?
Metformin XR/XR (Extended Release) and Metformin IR (Immediate Release) are medications for treating Type 2 diabetes—the primary difference lies in their absorption rates. Metformin XR is absorbed more slowly by the body, typically requiring only a once-daily dose, whereas Metformin IR is absorbed more quickly and usually taken twice daily. Additionally, because Metformin XR is absorbed slower, it may cause fewer gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea and nausea, than Metformin IR.
Can you take Metformin XR twice a day?
Metformin XR is FDA-approved to be taken once daily with your evening meal. However, some studies have shown that taking this medicine twice daily is safe and effective for controlling blood sugar throughout the day. Your healthcare provider may adjust your Metformin XR dosage based on your blood sugar levels to optimize your diabetes treatment. It is important not to stop, start, or change how you take your diabetes medications without consulting your provider first.
Can you drink alcohol while taking Metformin XR?
It’s best to avoid or limit the consumption of alcohol while taking Metformin XR. Alcohol can trigger the risk of low blood sugar and, when consumed in excess, can raise the risk of developing lactic acidosis. This dangerous health condition involves high levels of acid in the blood. If you drink alcohol regularly and find it difficult to stop, consult your healthcare provider to determine a safer amount to drink.
Does Metformin XR cause diarrhea?
Yes, Metformin XR can cause diarrhea during the first few weeks of treatment. To reduce the risk of diarrhea, take Metformin XR with your evening meal. If you experience diarrhea, ensure you drink enough water to stay hydrated. If you have more than three watery bowel movements per day while taking Metformin XR, contact your healthcare provider. They may adjust your dosage or discuss other ways to manage this side effect.
Our Guarantee
At Arctic Meds, we guarantee you will find the most competitive prices when purchasing Metformin XR through our platform. As the best Canadian online pharmacy, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality and genuine medications. Each order is fulfilled through a reputable and licensed Canada pharmacy online, ensuring that every product we ship meets stringent standards of quality and authenticity. Our reliable service ships your medications directly from Canada right to your doorstep. For seamless access to buy Metformin XR online from Canada at a low price contact us.
