Metformin

Metformin — Uses and Benefits

Metformin is used mainly to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus, helping to control blood sugar levels along with diet and exercise.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Controlling high blood sugar in type 2 diabetes
• Sometimes used in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) under doctor's guidance
• Used alone or along with other diabetes medicines or insulin

HOW IT WORKS

• Reduces the amount of sugar produced by the liver
• Increases the sensitivity of body cells to insulin
• Slows down absorption of sugar from the intestines

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for type 1 diabetes as the sole treatment
• Not used for treating diabetic ketoacidosis
• Not a treatment for weight loss on its own, though weight change may be seen
• Not a painkiller or infection treatment

How to Use Metformin

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Usually taken with or just after food to reduce stomach upset
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew extended-release forms
• Continue taking regularly even if you feel well, as this is a long-term treatment
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in original packaging until use
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use beyond the expiry date printed on the pack

Metformin — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Stomach upset or discomfort
• Loss of appetite
• Metallic taste in mouth

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Bloating or gas
• Headache
• Weakness
• Vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe tiredness, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, or unusual sleepiness (signs of lactic acidosis)
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Signs of low blood sugar such as sweating, shakiness, confusion when combined with other diabetes medicines
• Severe allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Metformin — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to metformin or any of its ingredients
• Have severe kidney disease
• Have severe liver disease
• Have had recent heart attack, severe infection, or dehydration
• Are going to undergo surgery or contrast dye imaging soon (tell your doctor)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver problems
• Have heart failure or breathing problems
• Drink alcohol regularly
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are elderly, as dose adjustments may be needed

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Contrast dye used in X-ray/CT scans
• Diuretics (water pills)
• Steroids
• Other diabetes medicines or insulin
• Certain blood pressure medicines

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can metformin cure diabetes?

No, it helps control blood sugar but does not cure diabetes; it must be taken regularly along with lifestyle changes.

Can I drink alcohol while taking metformin?

It is best to avoid or limit alcohol as it increases the risk of a rare but serious side effect called lactic acidosis.

Will metformin cause low blood sugar on its own?

• Metformin alone rarely causes low blood sugar, but risk increases when combined with other diabetes medicines.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.