Glucophage Dosage/Direction for Use

Adults with normal renal function (GFR ≥90 mL/min): Monotherapy and combination with other oral antidiabetic agents: The usual starting dose is one tablet of 500 mg or 850 mg metformin hydrochloride 2 or 3 times daily given during or after meals. After 10 to 15 days the dose should be adjusted on the basis of blood glucose measurements. A slow increase of dose may improve gastrointestinal tolerability.
The maximum recommended dose of metformin hydrochloride is 3 g daily, taken as 3 divided doses.
If transfer from another oral antidiabetic agent is intended: discontinue the other agent and initiate metformin at the dose indicated previously mentioned.
1,000 mg: In patients receiving a high metformin hydrochloride dose (2 to 3 grams per day), it is possible to replace two Glucophage 500 mg, film-coated tablets with one Glucophage 1000 mg, film-coated tablet.
Combination with insulin: Metformin hydrochloride and insulin may be used in combination therapy to achieve better blood glucose control. Metformin hydrochloride is given at the usual starting dose of one tablet of Glucophage 500 mg or 850 mg 2-3 times daily, while insulin dosage is adjusted on the basis of blood glucose measurements.
Elderly: Due to the potential for decreased renal function in elderly subjects, the metformin dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. Regular assessment of renal function is necessary (see Precautions).
Renal impairment: A GFR should be assessed before initiation of treatment with metformin containing products and at least annually thereafter. In patients at an increased risk of further progression of renal impairment and in the elderly, renal function should be assessed more frequently, e.g. every 3-6 months. (See table.)

Click on icon to see table/diagram/image

Paediatric population: Monotherapy and combination with insulin: GLUCOPHAGE film-coated tablet can be used in children from 10 years of age and adolescents.
The usual starting dose is one tablet of 500 mg or 850 mg metformin hydrochloride once daily, given during meals or after meals.
After 10 to 15 days the dose should be adjusted on the basis of blood glucose measurements. A slow increase of dose may improve gastrointestinal tolerability. The maximum recommended dose of metformin hydrochloride is 2 g daily, taken as 2 or 3 divided doses.
Route of Administration: Oral.