| What is Metformin?
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Metformin is an oral antidiabetic medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. |
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| Are there any side effects associated with Metformin?
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Metformin side effects may include abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, gas, headache, indigestion, nausea, vomiting,
and weakness.
If the side effects continue or are bothersome, check with
your doctor. Less common Metformin side effects may include abdominal distention, abnormal stools, altered sense of taste, chest discomfort, chills, constipation, dizziness, flu-like symptoms, flushing, increased sweating, low blood sugar, light-headedness, muscle pain, nail disorders, pounding heartbeat, rash, shortness of breath,
and upper respiratory infection. |
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| How is Metformin taken?
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Follow the directions for taking Metformin provided by your doctor. Do not take more or less of this medication than directed by your doctor. The drug should be taken with food to reduce the possibility of nausea or diarrhea, especially during the first few weeks of therapy.
Be sure to swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush it or chew it. The inactive ingredients in the tablet may occasionally appear in the stool. This is not a cause for concern.
If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.
Do not take two doses at once. |
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| Are there any effects of taking Metformin with other medications?
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Some medicines may interact with Metformin. Inform your doctor of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.
It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining
Metformin with amiloride, calcium channel blockers, cimetidine,
decongestant airway-opening drugs, digoxin, estrogens, furosemide,
isoniazid, major tranquilizers, morphine, niacin, oral contraceptives,
phenytoin, procainamide, quinidine, quinine, ranitidine, steroids, thyroid hormones,
triamterene, trimethoprim, vancomycin, or water pills. Do not drink too much alcohol, since excessive alcohol consumption can cause low blood sugar and alcohol enhances some effects of this drug. |
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| How should I store Metformin?
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Store Metformin at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from heat and light. |
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