Metformin

What Is Metformin?

Metformin is an oral medication used to manage type 2 diabetes. It is widely recommended as the first-line treatment, especially for people who are overweight, obese, or at higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
It is also commonly used for conditions linked to insulin resistance, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Metformin is one of the most trusted and widely prescribed medications worldwide for controlling blood sugar.

How Metformin Works

Metformin belongs to the biguanide class of antidiabetic medicines.
While its mechanism isn’t fully understood, we do know that it:

• Reduces the liver’s production of glucose

• Improves the body’s response to insulin

• Helps regulate blood sugar more effectively

These actions make it highly effective for type 2 diabetes and related metabolic conditions.

How to Store Metformin

• Keep the medication in a cool, dry, dark place

• Protect it from heat and moisture

• Keep out of reach of children

• Replace expired tablets with a new supply

How to Take It

Take Metformin exactly as your doctor prescribes. Only your healthcare provider should adjust your dosage.
For best results:

• Take Metformin with food (unless your doctor instructs otherwise)

• Follow a healthy diet

• Exercise regularly

• Attend scheduled blood sugar tests and other monitoring appointments

• You may be advised to take vitamin B12 supplements, as long-term use can reduce B12 levels

Dosage

Your dosage is personalized based on your condition.
Typical maximum daily doses:

• Adults: up to 2550 mg

• Children: up to 2000 mg

If You Miss a Dose

• Take it with your next meal

• If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one

• Do not double-dose

Overdose Warning

Signs of Metformin overdose may include:

• Feeling unusually cold

• Muscle pain or weakness

• Shortness of breath

• Stomach pain

• Excessive sleepiness

• Slow or irregular heartbeat

• Dizziness or fainting

Seek emergency medical help immediately if you suspect an overdose.

Warnings & Precautions

Metformin can, in rare cases, cause lactic acidosis, a serious condition requiring urgent care.
For your safety:

• Inform medical staff that you are taking Metformin before any procedure or test

• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

• Follow your doctor’s instructions closely

Possible Side Effects

Common, mild side effects may include:

• Headache

• Gas or bloating

• Stomach discomfort

• Diarrhea

• Nausea or vomiting

• Mild muscle pain or weakness

Seek medical help if you experience:

• Severe muscle pain

• Trouble breathing

• Unusual tiredness

• Feeling cold or numb in the extremities

• Severe stomach issues

• Slow or uneven heartbeat

Contact your doctor if you notice:

• Fever or chills

• Flu-like symptoms

• Rapid weight gain

• Persistent shortness of breath

Metformin for Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is common and, if untreated, can lead to serious health complications. Metformin remains the preferred first-choice medication for most newly diagnosed patients because of its proven effectiveness and safety profile.

When Not to Use Metformin

Do not take Metformin if:

• You are allergic to metformin

• You are experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)

How Long to Take Metformin

Use Metformin for as long as your doctor prescribes. Many patients take it long-term as part of their ongoing diabetes management plan.