Canada GLUCOPHAGE® (metformin hydrochloride tablets) and Canada GLUCOPHAGE® XR (metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets) are oral antihyperglycemic drugs used in the management of type 2 diabetes. Metformin hydrochloride (N,N-dimethylimidodicarbonimidic diamide hydrochloride) is not chemically or pharmacologically related to any other classes of oral antihyperglycemic agents.

Metformin hydrochloride is a white to off-white crystalline compound with a molecular formula of C4H11N5•HCl and a molecular weight of 165.63. Metformin hydrochloride is freely soluble in water and is practically insoluble in acetone, ether, and chloroform. The pKa of metformin is 12.4. The pH of a 1% aqueous solution of metformin hydrochloride is 6.68.

What is the difference between brand name Canada GLUCOPHAGE and generic metformin?

Canada GLUCOPHAGE is a medication made by the Bristol-Myers Squibb Company in its own laboratories and facilities in the United States. The active ingredient in Canada GLUCOPHAGE is called metformin. Generic metformin tablets contain the same active ingredient, but are manufactured by other companies.

Like most oral medications, Canada GLUCOPHAGE® (metformin hydrochloride tablets) contains inactive ingredients that allow the active ingredient to be swallowed and absorbed into the body. In generic products, the type and proportion of these inactive ingredients may vary. Generic metformin may also vary in appearance from Canada GLUCOPHAGE (e.g., size, shape, color of tablets and tablet markings).

Important Information

Canada GLUCOPHAGE® (metformin hydrochloride tablets) and Canada GLUCOPHAGE® XR (metformin HCl extended-release tablets) are not for everyone. In rare cases, Canada GLUCOPHAGE or Canada GLUCOPHAGE XR may cause lactic acidosis (buildup of lactic acid in the blood), which is serious and can be fatal in half the cases. This occurs mainly in people whose kidneys are not functioning properly. Tell your doctor about your alcohol use because it can affect your risk. You should not take this drug if you: have kidney problems, are 80 or older (unless your kidneys are tested), are taking medication for heart failure, are seriously dehydrated, have a severe infection, or if you have or have had liver disease. The most common side effect is diarrhea.