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Metformin

Generic Name: 

Metformin

Brand Names: 

Fortamet, Glucophage, Glumetza, Riomet

Metformin is also present in many combination medications.

Metformin Description: 

Metformin is an antihyperglycemic drug used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. In patients with type 2 diabetes, the hormone insulin does not properly carry glucose from the blood stream into cells, causing high blood sugar levels that can lead to dangerous complications over time. By enhancing the performance of insulin, while also decreasing the amount of glucose absorbed from food in the stomach and produced by the liver, metformin helps stabilize glucose levels in the body.

Metformin is generally only a single component of a larger type 2 diabetes treatment plan that includes a healthy diet and exercise.

Metformin Side Effects: 

Most people react well to metformin. However, the most common side effects associated with the medication include:

  • Diarrhea
  • Fatigue
  • Gas
  • Heartburn
  • Indigestion
  • Weight loss

For more information see our metformin side effects page.

Metformin Uses: 

Metformin is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. While many can control this condition with diet and exercise alone, metformin is often used as an additional method of treatment. Metformin is commonly used in conjunction with insulin or a sulfonylurea in the fight against type 2 diabetes.

Metformin is not used to treat type 1 diabetes.

Metformin Interactions: 

The use of other medications may dangerously interact with metformin or make it less effective. Patients should speak with their doctor about the use of any medications, vitamins or supplements before taking metformin.

Metformin may interact with the following medications:

  • Birth control pills
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Cimetidine
  • Corticosteroids
  • Diuretics
  • Estrogen
  • Fiber supplements
  • Isoniazid
  • Niacin
  • Phenothiazine
  • Phenytoin
  • Some decongestants
  • Thyroid drugs
Metformin Dosage Information: 

Typical Dosage Recommendations

Metformin doses will differ among patients and should be taken according to guidelines established by your doctor.

When taken alone, metformin is available in tablets and extended-release tablets. When tablets are prescribed for adults, most patients initially start off taking either a 500 mg or 850 mg dosage of metformin twice daily, with breakfast and dinner. Your doctor may increase your dosage as treatment progresses, but usually patients should not exceed 2550 mg per day.

Children at least 10 years of age taking metformin usually begin treatment by taking 500 mg twice daily at breakfast and dinner. While your doctor may increase this dosage as treatment progress, pediatric patients generally should not exceed 2000 mg per day.

Dosage regimens will differ for extended-release tablets.

Missing a Dose of Metformin

If you forget to take a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosage schedule. Do not consume a double dose of this medication.

Metformin Overdose

Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you may have overdosed on metformin, as taking too much of this medication may sometimes result in lactic acidosis, a potentially fatal complication.

Metformin FDA Approval: 

March 3, 1995

Metformin Recall/Black Box Warning Information: 

Metformin carries a Black Box warning informing consumers of the risk of a rare but potentially fatal complication called lactic acidosis. The elderly and those with a history of heart failure are at a higher risk of developing lactic acidosis. Speak with your doctor about any other medical conditions before taking metformin.

Sources: 
  1. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR601533
  2. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a696005.html
  3. http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/drugsatfda/index.cfm?fuseaction=Search.SearchAction&SearchType=BasicSearch&searchTerm=metformin&Search_Button=Submit
  4. http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/Scripts/cder/DrugsatFDA/index.cfm?fuseaction=Search.DrugDetails
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