According to their web site www.glucophage.com (http://www.glucophage.com) it is a once a day medication. Why bother to spend the extra money for the latest greatest time release version if you are going to take multiple doses a day. I think glucophage (metaformin SP) just went generic, so the drug company needs a new version to continue to maintain the nongeneric brand. That's not to say there is anything wrong with taking the time release version, it is alot easier and more convenient to take one pill in the morning than to take multiple doses. It is just that you defeat the purpose of a time release medicine if you end up taking it multiple times a day. I would question the doctor about this. But first remember knowledge rules, so spend some time on the web doing research, then you can approach your diabetes treatment with some self confidence.