[kenoxla]

How many hours is regular Metformin effective after taking compared to the extended release version? I am taking 500 mg twice daily (breakfast and dinner - 12 hr apart). I'm wondering if there are periods when I'm not covered by the medication. My doctor is reluctant to prescribe the extended version because of cost. Is it that expensive? Thank you!

 

[Shanny]

I wasn't aware that the extended version is any more expensive than regular. But unless you're having gastric side effects, I know of no reason you'd need the extended release - all it does is reduce the side effects in some patients - it doesn't provide any better coverage.

Once you've been on met a few weeks, it has reached maximum blood levels and by taking your daily doses regularly, you are maintaining that blood level. There should be no decrease in coverage between daily doses.