Uses, Dosage, Warnings And Side Effects Of Metformin

Metformin is an oral diabetes medication that helps to control blood sugar levels. It can be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Metformin may also be used with insulin but is not used for treating type 1 diabetes. In this article we discuss the uses, dosage, warnings and side effects of metformin.

Uses Of Metformin

Metformin is a medication used to treat and help prevent type 2 diabetes. It is also used when treating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), even though it is not officially approved for PCOS.

How Does Metformin Work?

This drug works by reducing the amount of sugar your liver releases into your blood stream. Metformin also makes your body better respond to insulin which is the hormone that controls the level of sugar in your blood. Unlike other diabetes medications, metformin does not cause weight gain.

Foods To Avoid While Taking Metformin

Eating foods that can spike your blood sugar will decrease the effectiveness of metformin. These foods include, but are not limited to, the following:

- White bread

- White rice

- Pasta

- Sugary desserts

- Snacks like chips and crackers

Metformin Brand Name

Metformin is available as the brand names Bolamyn, Diagemet, Glucient, Glucophage and Metabet and also as a generic drug. Brand name metformin is called Riomet.

Who Can Not Take This Medication?

Metformin is not suitable for some people. It is prescribed for adults and children over 10 years of age. Tell your healthcare professional before starting metformin:

If you have had an allergic reaction to metformin or other medicines in the past
Have liver or kidney problems
Drink a lot of alcohol
Have severe breathing difficulties
Are currently being treated for heart failure

Additionally, you may need to stop taking this medication before certain medical tests and surgery. Tell your doctor if you:

Have an upcoming test like an X-ray or scan involving the injection of a dye containing iodine
Surgery where you’ll be asleep

How To Take

Take metformin as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist. Be sure to follow all directions on your prescription label.

Unless your doctor tells your otherwise, it is best to take metformin with a meal. Certain forms of metformin are taken once a day with your evening meal. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

Do not chew, crush or break an extended-release tablet. Swallow it whole.

When taking the liquid form of metformin measure it carefully. Before measuring, however, be sure to measure a dose.

You may have low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and feel very hungry, irritable, confused, dizzy, or anxious. To help treat hypoglycemia you can eat or drink a fast-acting source of sugar.

Store your medication at room temperature and keep away from moisture, heat, and sunlight.

Dosage For Metformin

Your dosage of metformin can depend on a few things. This includes:

Your age
The condition being treated
Your health
Your response to the first dosage

Immediate-Release of Metformin

Initial dose: 500 mg twice daily or 850 mg orally once daily.

Maintenance dose: 2,000 mg per day in divided doses

Maximum dosage: 2,550 mg per day

Extended-Release

Initial dosage: 500 mg to 1,000 mg once daily

Maximum dosage: 2,000 mg per day

Disclaimer: Here at ManifestRX and Manifest Pharmacy, our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. The information here is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare professional who knows your medical history.

Side Effects Of Metformin

Metformin may have side effects. Some more common and serious than others. If you think any of these may be life-threatening call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Common side effects of metformin may include:

Muscle pain
Chills or feeling cold
Difficulty breathing
Stomach pain or vomiting
Decreased heart rate
Low blood sugar
Nausea
Diarrhea

Serious Side Effects Of Metformin

Some side effects are more serious and potentially life-threatening. Contact your doctor or another healthcare professional if you experience any of the following serious symptoms:

Extreme tiredness
Feeling cold
Vomiting
Feeling Cold
Extreme dizziness
Decreased appetite
Stomach pain

Disclaimer: This information is not a substitute for medical advice and because medications can affect each person differently this may not be a complete list of side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may also report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Metformin Interactions

It is not advisable to take metformin at the same time as Cimetidine. Doing so can reduce the excretion of metformin, resulting in elevated risk of certain side effects.