Metformin
Generic Name: metformin hydrochloride
Brand Names:
Glucophage, Glucophage XR, Fortamet, Glumetza
Metformin is a first-line medication for type 2 diabetes that works by decreasing glucose production in the liver and improving your body's sensitivity to insulin. It is one of the most widely prescribed diabetes medications worldwide and has been used safely for decades.
Overview
Metformin is a first-line medication for type 2 diabetes that works by decreasing glucose production in the liver and improving your body's sensitivity to insulin. It is one of the most widely prescribed diabetes medications worldwide and has been used safely for decades.
Uses
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (as monotherapy or in combination with other medications). Sometimes used off-label for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), weight management, and prediabetes prevention.
Dosage
Adults: Usually started at 500 mg twice daily or 850 mg once daily with meals. May be increased gradually to a maximum of 2,550 mg/day in divided doses.
Side Effects
Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, metallic taste. Serious (rare): Lactic acidosis.
Interactions
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors may increase lactic acidosis risk. Avoid excessive alcohol use.
Warnings
Do not use if you have severe kidney disease, metabolic acidosis, or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Pregnancy
Category B — Generally considered safe in pregnancy.
Storage
Store at room temperature (68–77°F / 20–25°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Metformin used for?▼
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (as monotherapy or in combination with other medications). Sometimes used off-label for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), weight management, and prediabetes prevention.
What are the side effects of Metformin?▼
Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, metallic taste. Serious (rare): Lactic acidosis.
Can I take Metformin during pregnancy?▼
Category B — Generally considered safe in pregnancy.
What are the important warnings for Metformin?▼
Do not use if you have severe kidney disease, metabolic acidosis, or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Related Medications
Gibberella Fujikuroi And Fusarium Solani
gibberella fujikuroi and fusarium solani
Dosage form: SOLUTION. Route: INTRADERMAL, PERCUTANEOUS, SUBCUTANEOUS. Active ingredients: GIBBERELLA FUJIKUROI (10000 [PNU]/mL); HAEMATONECTRIA HAEMATOCOCCA (10000 [PNU]/mL). Category: BLA.
Alfalfa, Antimonium Crudum, Avena Sativa, Berberis Vulgaris, Cajuputum, Carbo Animalis, Carbo Vegetabilis, Chelidonium Majus, Fel Tauri, Gentiana Lutea, Glycyrrhiza Glabra, Illicium Anisatum, Indolum, Kali Carbonicum, Lycopodium Clavatum, Magnesia Phosphorica, Nux Vomica, Pancreatinum, Pepsinum, Raphanus Sativus, Rhamnus Purshiana, Skatolum
alfalfa, antimonium crudum, avena sativa, berberis vulgaris, cajuputum, carbo animalis, carbo vegetabilis, chelidonium majus, fel tauri, gentiana lutea, glycyrrhiza glabra, illicium anisatum, indolum, kali carbonicum, lycopodium clavatum, magnesia phosphorica, nux vomica, pancreatinum, pepsinum, raphanus sativus, rhamnus purshiana, skatolum
Non-Standardized Food Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Uses: For temporary relief of minor: indigestion* bloating* stomach irritation/ache* flatulence* loss of appetite* *Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.
Kidney Stim Liquescence
kidney stim liquescence
Nitrogen Binding Agent [EPC]
*Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.
Medical Disclaimer
This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.