Hi Tina,
Good for you taking steps in the right direction. Seems to me that 500mg of glucophage is not even considered a theraputic dose. (1000mg is sort of the base)
You dont mention what your BS are running, but Glucophage is one of the better meds for trying to lose weight, I gained 10 lbs on Glyburide in a flash.
I want to refer you to an excellent book which you can read online diabetes-book.com. As well there is a forum there where some of your questions might be answered. It is alot of the same people who are on the Dr Berntien/Diabetes forum here.
Good luck on your journey and remember you are not alone, you can your find daily support here .