Metformin (commonly supplied as metformin hydrochloride)
Brand names (as verified)
Glycomet; Glucophage (brand availability varies by market)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Common tablet strengths include 500 mg, 850 mg and 1000 mg; immediate- and extended-release products are not interchangeable without professional advice.
Prescription classification
Prescription only (Schedule H / verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
An oral glucose-lowering medicine used with diet and activity to improve blood-glucose control in type 2 diabetes. It is not a replacement for insulin in type 1 diabetes or for emergency treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Do not use with severe renal impairment or acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis. Other exclusions may depend on the formulation and clinical situation.
Important precautions
Kidney function should be assessed before and during treatment. Severe dehydration, serious infection, low oxygen states, heavy alcohol intake and some imaging procedures can increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Long-term use may reduce vitamin B12 levels.
Common side effects
Common effects include diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, gas and a metallic taste, especially when treatment is started or increased.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Lactic acidosis is rare but potentially life-threatening. Warning signs may include unusual weakness, breathing difficulty, muscle pain, severe abdominal symptoms or unusual sleepiness; urgent care is needed.
Important interactions
Review use with alcohol, iodinated contrast agents, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors and medicines that affect kidney function or glucose levels. Tell the care team before imaging procedures involving contrast.
Allergy considerations
Avoid after a serious allergic reaction to metformin or any ingredient in the product.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Diabetes treatment during pregnancy requires individual planning. Do not stop or change metformin without the treating clinician’s guidance.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Discuss use with the treating clinician while breastfeeding, considering glucose control, infant health and any other medicines.
Children and older adults
Not suitable for every patient with kidney, liver or acute illness concerns. Older adults may require closer renal-function monitoring.
Storage
Store in original packaging at room temperature, away from excess moisture and heat. Keep out of children’s reach.
Missed dose
Take with the next scheduled meal if instructed and remembered in time; do not take a double dose. Follow product-specific directions or ask a pharmacist.
Overdose
Overdose can cause lactic acidosis and may be life-threatening. Seek emergency medical care immediately if an excessive amount has been taken.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
References
RxNorm (National Library of Medicine) — RxNorm (National Library of Medicine)source(Regulatory / approved product label (e.g. CDSCO))
Metformin (commonly supplied as metformin hydrochloride)
Brand names (as verified)
Glycomet; Glucophage (brand availability varies by market)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Common tablet strengths include 500 mg, 850 mg and 1000 mg; immediate- and extended-release products are not interchangeable without professional advice.
Prescription classification
Prescription only (Schedule H / verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
An oral glucose-lowering medicine used with diet and activity to improve blood-glucose control in type 2 diabetes. It is not a replacement for insulin in type 1 diabetes or for emergency treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Do not use with severe renal impairment or acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis. Other exclusions may depend on the formulation and clinical situation.
Important precautions
Kidney function should be assessed before and during treatment. Severe dehydration, serious infection, low oxygen states, heavy alcohol intake and some imaging procedures can increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Long-term use may reduce vitamin B12 levels.
Common side effects
Common effects include diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, gas and a metallic taste, especially when treatment is started or increased.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Lactic acidosis is rare but potentially life-threatening. Warning signs may include unusual weakness, breathing difficulty, muscle pain, severe abdominal symptoms or unusual sleepiness; urgent care is needed.
Important interactions
Review use with alcohol, iodinated contrast agents, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors and medicines that affect kidney function or glucose levels. Tell the care team before imaging procedures involving contrast.
Allergy considerations
Avoid after a serious allergic reaction to metformin or any ingredient in the product.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Diabetes treatment during pregnancy requires individual planning. Do not stop or change metformin without the treating clinician’s guidance.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Discuss use with the treating clinician while breastfeeding, considering glucose control, infant health and any other medicines.
Children and older adults
Not suitable for every patient with kidney, liver or acute illness concerns. Older adults may require closer renal-function monitoring.
Storage
Store in original packaging at room temperature, away from excess moisture and heat. Keep out of children’s reach.
Missed dose
Take with the next scheduled meal if instructed and remembered in time; do not take a double dose. Follow product-specific directions or ask a pharmacist.
Overdose
Overdose can cause lactic acidosis and may be life-threatening. Seek emergency medical care immediately if an excessive amount has been taken.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
References
RxNorm (National Library of Medicine) — RxNorm (National Library of Medicine)source(Regulatory / approved product label (e.g. CDSCO))
