Glumetza® Extended-Release Metformin Tablets for Type 2 Diabetes

What Glumetza® Is and How It Works

Glumetza® is an extended-release form of metformin, a biguanide used to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is taken by mouth as a once-daily tablet. Many people compare Glumetza price and options when choosing a metformin ER brand, including for glumetza cost without insurance considerations.

CanadianInsulin is a prescription referral service. Prescriptions are verified with your clinic, and orders are filled by licensed Canadian pharmacies. We work with licensed, vetted partner pharmacies to source authentic brand medications with a broad selection and value‑focused pricing.

Metformin lowers glucose by decreasing hepatic glucose production, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing intestinal glucose absorption. Glumetza (metformin ER) helps lower A1C and fasting glucose and is generally weight‑neutral. It is not a weight loss drug, though some may see modest weight change with diet and activity.

Glumetza is available as extended‑release tablets in 500 mg and 1000 mg strengths. Typical dosing is once daily with the evening meal. The tablet’s slow‑release matrix supports steady absorption and may improve gastrointestinal tolerability versus immediate‑release metformin.

Dosage and Usage

• Initiation: 500 mg once daily with the evening meal.
• Titration: Increase in 500 mg intervals at 1–2 week intervals based on glycemic response and tolerance.
• Usual maintenance: 1000–2000 mg once daily with the evening meal.
• Maximum recommended: 2000 mg once daily. Doses above 2000 mg are not recommended.
• Tablets: Swallow whole with water. Do not split, crush, or chew.
• Ghost tablet: An inert shell may appear in stool. The drug has already been released.
• Renal status: Assess kidney function periodically; metformin is contraindicated if eGFR is below 30 mL/min/1.73 m².
• Contrast procedures/surgery: Consider temporary discontinuation during periods of restricted intake or iodinated contrast exposure, as advised by a clinician.
• Missed dose: Take when remembered unless close to the next dose. Do not double doses.

• Storage: Store at 15–30°C (59–86°F). Keep tablets dry in the original container with the desiccant.
• Moisture/heat: Protect from humidity, sunlight, and high heat (e.g., dashboards, radiators).
• Travel: Carry in original labeled bottle in a carry‑on bag. Bring a copy of the prescription.
• Handling: Do not repackage into pill organizers in humid settings. Keep cap tightly closed.
• Timing on trips: Keep a consistent daily schedule when crossing time zones.

Benefits and Savings

Glumetza helps reduce A1C by about 1–1.5% on average when used with diet and exercise. Extended‑release dosing may reduce gastrointestinal side effects compared with immediate‑release metformin, and once‑daily tablets can simplify routines. The medication is weight‑neutral for most and is often used as foundational therapy in type 2 diabetes.

Many customers save 60–80% vs typical U.S. prices. Those comparing glumetza cost without insurance often consider multi‑month supplies to increase value.

See our promotions page for current offers, including any glumetza coupon if available.

Side Effects and Safety

• Common: Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, gas, and indigestion, especially during dose titration.
• Other: Headache, fatigue, and a metallic taste in the mouth.
• Laboratory: Long‑term use may reduce vitamin B12 levels; monitoring may be appropriate.
• Hypoglycemia: Low risk when used alone; risk increases with insulin or sulfonylureas.

The main rare but serious risk is lactic acidosis, which can present with profound fatigue, muscle pain, rapid breathing, drowsiness, or abdominal discomfort. Risk is higher with significant renal impairment, hepatic disease, hypoxia, dehydration, or heavy alcohol use. Metformin is contraindicated in eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m² and during certain acute conditions. Discuss contrast imaging or planned surgery management with a clinician.

Onset Time

Fasting glucose may begin improving within a few days as therapy starts or titrates. Gastrointestinal side effects, if present, often lessen after 1–2 weeks at a stable dose. A1C changes reflect the prior 2–3 months of glycemia, so the full effect is usually seen after 8–12 weeks of consistent dosing and lifestyle efforts.

Compare With Alternatives

Several branded therapies can be considered if additional glucose lowering or weight effects are needed.

Rybelsus® (oral semaglutide) is a GLP‑1 receptor agonist taken once daily. It supports A1C reduction and clinically meaningful weight loss in many adults. It is not metformin and has unique administration steps and gastrointestinal tolerability considerations. See Rybelsus for details.

Trulicity® (dulaglutide) is a once‑weekly injectable GLP‑1 RA that lowers A1C and weight and has cardiovascular outcome data in adults with type 2 diabetes and established CVD or risk factors. Learn more on Trulicity.

Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) is a once‑weekly GIP/GLP‑1 receptor agonist that can produce significant A1C and weight reductions. It has a different mechanism from metformin and may be combined with metformin as directed by a clinician.

Within metformin ER brands, Fortamet and Glumetza both deliver extended‑release metformin. Formulations differ in release mechanisms and tablet sizes. Some patients tolerate one ER brand better than another, but the active ingredient is the same.

Combination Therapy

• Metformin ER plus basal insulin: Consider reducing insulin dose to reduce hypoglycemia risk when glycemia improves.
• Metformin ER plus sulfonylurea: Monitor for hypoglycemia; dose adjustments may be needed.
• Metformin ER plus GLP‑1 RA (e.g., Trulicity or Rybelsus): Complementary mechanisms; may aid weight and A1C goals.
• Metformin ER plus SGLT2 inhibitor: Can improve glycemia and support cardiometabolic outcomes in eligible adults.
• Metformin ER plus DPP‑4 inhibitor: Oral option for additional A1C reduction with low hypoglycemia risk.

Patient Suitability and Cost‑Saving Tips

Glumetza is intended for adults with type 2 diabetes as an adjunct to diet and exercise. It is not indicated for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. It may not be suitable for those with severe renal impairment (eGFR below 30), significant hepatic disease, advanced heart failure, or conditions associated with hypoxia or dehydration. Alcohol misuse increases lactic acidosis risk. Discuss pregnancy and breastfeeding considerations with a healthcare professional.

Practical ways to manage glumetza medication cost include choosing an appropriate strength to reduce pill burden, comparing brand versus metformin ER generic, and ordering multi‑month quantities when appropriate. Setting gentle reorder reminders can prevent urgent last‑minute purchases. CanadianInsulin offers prompt, express, cold‑chain shipping and clear prescription upload steps for a smooth experience.

Authoritative Sources

FDA Prescribing Information for Glumetza (metformin HCl ER)

Health Canada Drug Product Database (DPD)

Manufacturer Product Page: Glumetza

Order Glumetza from CanadianInsulin: add to cart, upload your prescription, and we ship with prompt, express, cold‑chain handling.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a licensed healthcare professional. Always consult your prescriber and pharmacist regarding diagnosis, treatment, and safe medication use.