Metformin (Glucophage)

Learn how this medication works and its side effects

Facts

Metformin (Glucophage) is an oral medication in a class of drugs called biguanide and used to treat type 2 diabetes.

It works in two ways:

1) It decreases the amount of sugar that the liver produces and the intestines absorb.
2) It helps make your body more sensitive to the insulin that you produce naturally.

Before you consider taking this medication please consult with your doctor about the following medical conditions because some conditions may interact with this medication:

- Pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast feeding
- Allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
- History of heart, lung or breathing problems, thyroid problems, stomach or bowel problems, adrenal or pituitary or lactic acidosis
- Vomiting, diarrhea, poor health or nutrition, low blood calcium or vitamin B12 levels, or anemia, or if you are dehydrated
- Infection, fever, recent injury or moderate to severe burns
- Having surgery or certain lab procedures
- Taking beta-blockers

Side Effects

Common:

- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Headache
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Stomach Upset
- A temporary metallic taste in your mouth
- Vomiting

Severe:

- Allergic reaction (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue)
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fast or difficult breathing
- Feeling or being unusually cold
- Fever, chills, or persistent sore throat
- General feeling or being unwell
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Unusual drowsiness
- Unusual or persistent stomach pain or discomfort
- Unusual tiredness or weakness


If you are taking or considering taking Metformin and are elderly, have a history or liver problems, kidney problems or heart problems you may be a higher risk for a serious and sometimes fatal condition called lactic acidosis. Lactic acidosis happens when the oxygen levels in the body drop and lactic acid builds up in the blood stream faster than it can be removed. Please consult your doctor right have any of the severe side effects listed above.

As always please consult with your doctor when taking or adjusting any and all medications to make sure your safety is insured.

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