Common Use

Metformin is a medication used to manage high blood sugar levels in adults and children with type 2 diabetes. Proper blood sugar control helps prevent serious complications such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve issues, limb loss, and sexual dysfunction. It may also reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Metformin works by improving the sensitivity of the liver, muscles, fat, and other tissues to insulin and by enhancing the body's natural insulin response, which lowers blood sugar levels. It can be used alone or alongside other diabetes medications and is particularly effective in delaying diabetes-related problems in overweight individuals.

Dosage and Direction

The recommended adult dosage of Metformin ranges from 500 mg taken 3-4 times daily to 850 mg taken 2-3 times daily. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 2,550 mg. Take the medication with food and a full glass of water, ideally with the evening meal, to minimize nausea and vomiting. Swallow the tablets whole, do not crush, chew, or break them, as this can disrupt the drug's long-acting properties and increase side effects. Regularly monitor your blood glucose levels as directed by your doctor. For children aged 10-16, the starting dose is 500 mg twice daily, which can be increased by 500 mg weekly up to a maximum of 2,000 mg. Dosage adjustments depend on your medical condition and response to treatment. Take Metformin consistently at the same time each day for optimal results. Full benefits may take up to 2 weeks to become noticeable.

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver or heart disease. Avoid Metformin if you are allergic to it or experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis, which requires insulin treatment. Limit alcohol consumption while taking Metformin, as it can lower blood sugar and increase the risk of lactic acidosis.

Contraindications

Metformin is not recommended for individuals with:

• Renal disease or dysfunction
• Hypersensitivity to metformin
• Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
• Severe infections, trauma, or recent surgery
• Pregnancy
• Severe dehydration
• Recent use of iodinated contrast materials for radiologic studies
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Conditions causing tissue oxygen deficiency, such as cardio-respiratory insufficiency
• Severe liver disease
• Type 1 diabetes (insulin is required)
• Very poor blood glucose control (not to be used as the sole anti-diabetic agent)

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects of Metformin include nausea, vomiting, gas, bloating, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. These effects are dose-dependent and may lessen with a reduced dosage. A rare but serious side effect is lactic acidosis, characterized by:

• Weakness
• Trouble breathing
• Abnormal heartbeats
• Unusual muscle pain
• Stomach discomfort
• Light-headedness
• Feeling cold

Patients with kidney or liver dysfunction, congestive heart failure, severe acute illnesses, or dehydration are at higher risk for lactic acidosis.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription, nonprescription, or herbal products you are using. Combining Cimetidine (Tagamet) with Metformin may increase the likelihood of side effects.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical help if you experience symptoms of lactic acidosis, such as weakness, extreme sleepiness, slow heart rate, cold sensations, muscle pain, shortness of breath, stomach pain, light-headedness, or fainting.

Storage

Store Metformin at room temperature, between 20-25°C (68-77°F).

Disclaimer

The information provided here is general and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider or doctor for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We disclaim any responsibility for the accuracy of this information or any consequences resulting from its use or self-treatment.