Are you or someone you know taking metformin hydrochloride to manage diabetes?
Here you will find important information about this medication, including dosage, side effects, and guidelines for use.
Stay informed and take control of your health with our comprehensive patient information leaflet!
Overview
Metformin is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called biguanides. It is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes by helping to control blood sugar levels. Metformin works by decreasing the amount of sugar produced by the liver and increasing the sensitivity of muscle cells to insulin. This helps the body use insulin more effectively and lower blood sugar levels.
| Drug Class: | Biguanides |
| Usage: | Manage blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes |
| Mechanism of Action: | Decreases liver sugar production, increases insulin sensitivity |
| Benefits: | Lowering blood sugar levels, improving insulin sensitivity |
What is Metformin?
Metformin is a medication that belongs to the class of biguanides, primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. It works by decreasing the amount of sugar produced by the liver and increasing the sensitivity of muscle cells to insulin, thereby helping to lower blood sugar levels in the body.
Metformin is often prescribed in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It is not used to treat type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Uses
Metformin is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. It helps control blood sugar levels and improves how the body responds to insulin. Additionally, Metformin is sometimes prescribed to treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women.
Diabetes Management
Metformin is commonly prescribed to manage diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels. It helps the body use insulin more effectively and reduces the amount of sugar produced by the liver.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
In women with PCOS, Metformin can help regulate menstrual cycles, lower insulin levels, and improve the effectiveness of ovulation-inducing medications. It can also reduce the risk of gestational diabetes in pregnant women with PCOS.
Medical Conditions
Metformin is commonly prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes, a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels resulting from the body’s inability to properly use insulin.
It may also be used to treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods, infertility, and abnormal hair growth.
Additionally, Metformin has shown potential benefits in conditions such as gestational diabetes and metabolic syndrome, which are associated with insulin resistance and abnormal glucose metabolism.
Dosage
The dosage of Metformin should be determined by your healthcare provider based on your individual medical condition and response to treatment. Typically, the starting dose is one tablet taken with meals once or twice a day. The dose may be gradually increased by your doctor to achieve the desired effect. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and not exceed the recommended dosage.
It is essential to take Metformin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider to get the most benefit from the medication. Do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor first. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Side Effects
Metformin hydrochloride may cause some side effects. It is important to be aware of these side effects and contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of them.
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Stomach upset
- Loss of appetite
- Mild skin rash
Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention):
- Signs of lactic acidosis such as weakness, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, sleepiness, and stomach pain
- Dehydration symptoms like dry mouth, increased thirst, dizziness, and urinating less than usual
- Signs of high blood sugar like increased thirst, urinating more than usual, confusion, and drowsiness
- Signs of low blood sugar like sweating, shakiness, fast heartbeat, hunger, and irritability
It is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any side effects promptly.
Side Effects
Metformin is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. Some common side effects of Metformin include:
| 1. Nausea | 6. Taste disturbance |
| 2. Diarrhea | 7. Abdominal discomfort |
| 3. Stomach upset | 8. Headache |
| 4. Gas | 9. Muscle pain |
| 5. Heartburn | 10. Skin rash |
If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking Metformin, it is important to consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Possible Reactions
When taking Metformin, some patients may experience certain side effects or reactions. It is important to be aware of them and consult your healthcare provider if necessary. Some of the possible reactions include:
| 1. Nausea |
| 2. Vomiting |
| 3. Diarrhea |
| 4. Stomach upset |
| 5. Headache |
| 6. Muscle pain |
| 7. Lactic acidosis (rare but serious) |
These reactions are not an exhaustive list, and individual responses may vary. If you experience any discomfort or severe reactions while taking Metformin, seek medical attention promptly.