This page is for informational purposes only

Metformin Hcl / Metformin-Oral Tablet

ALTERNATE NAMES FOR METFORMIN HCL :

Glucophage

METFORMIN HCL IS USED FOR :

Metformin Hcl is a biguanide-type medicine that is used along with a diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in diabetic patients. Metformin Hcl works by helping to restore your body s proper response to the insulin you naturally produce, and by decreasing the amount of sugar that your liver makes and that your stomach/intestines absorb. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease, blindness and circulation problems, as well as decreased sexual ability (impotence).

USING METFORMIN HCL :

Metformin Hcl is best taken by mouth with meals. Drink plenty of fluids while taking Metformin Hcl. Use Metformin Hcl regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time(s) each day. Your dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Metformin Hcl may come with a Patient Information Leaflet. Read it carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist any questions you may have about your medication.

SIDE EFFECTS OF METFORMIN HCL :

Also see Warning section. Nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea or metallic taste may occur initially as your body adjusts to the medication. If stomach symptoms recur later (after you are on the same dose for several days or weeks), tell your doctor immediately. A late recurrence of stomach symptoms may be due to lactic acidosis. Metformin Hcl usually does not cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), but this effect may occur if you do not consume enough calories (from food, juices, fruit, etc.). The symptoms include chills, cold sweat, dizziness, drowsiness, shaking, rapid heartbeat, weakness, headache, fainting, tingling of the hands or feet, or hunger. It is a good habit to carry glucose tablets or gel to treat low blood sugar. If you are in a situation where you don t have these reliable forms of glucose, eat a quick source of sugar such as table sugar, honey, or candy, or drink a glass of orange juice or non-diet soda to quickly raise your blood sugar level. Tell your doctor immediately about the reaction. To help prevent hypoglycemia, eat meals on a regular schedule and do not skip meals. Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) include thirst, increased urination, confusion, drowsiness, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity breath odor. If these symptoms occur, tell your doctor immediately. Your medication dosage may need to be increased. An allergic reaction to Metformin Hcl is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS WHILE TAKING METFORMIN HCL :

Metformin Hcl should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using Metformin Hcl, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: kidney disease, liver disease, conditions that may cause a low oxygen blood level or poor circulation (e.g., severe congestive heart failure, recent heart attack, recent stroke), metabolic acidosis (e.g., diabetic ketoacidosis), serious infection, lack of body fluids (dehydration). Before using Metformin Hcl, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: severe breathing problems (e.g., obstructive lung disease, severe asthma), blood problems (e.g., anemia, vitamin B-12 deficiency), scheduled upcoming surgery, scheduled upcoming x-ray or scanning procedures, fertility problems (e.g., ovulation problems), alcohol use, any allergies. Limit alcohol while using Metformin Hcl. During times of stress, such as fever, infection, injury or surgery, it may be more difficult to control your blood sugar. Consult your doctor, as a change in your medication may be required. Metformin Hcl can cause changes in the menstrual cycle (promote ovulation) in women with certain fertility problems, increasing the risk of becoming pregnant. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about the use of reliable birth control while using Metformin Hcl. Caution is advised when using Metformin Hcl in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of Metformin Hcl. Metformin Hcl should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether Metformin Hcl passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using Metformin Hcl.

MEDICATION INTERACTIONS TAKING METFORMIN HCL :

Before using Metformin Hcl, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: birth control pills, high blood pressure drugs (beta-blockers such as propranolol, calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine, ACE inhibitors such as captopril), cimetidine, clomiphene, corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), decongestants, other diabetes drugs (e.g., glyburide, insulin), estrogens, fenugreek, ginseng, isoniazid, niacin, phenothiazines (e.g., chlorpromazine), phenytoin, thyroid drugs, water pills (diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide). If you are scheduled to undergo any x-ray or scanning procedure using injectable iodinated contrast material, be sure to inform your doctor that you are taking Metformin Hcl. You will need to temporarily stop Metformin Hcl around the time of your procedure. Consult your doctor for further instructions. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

IF YOU OVERDOSE WITH METFORMIN HCL :

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: rapid or trouble breathing, severe drowsiness, slow or irregular heartbeat.

IF YOU MISS A DOSE WITH METFORMIN HCL :

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

HOW TO STORE METFORMIN HCL :

Store the U.S. product between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage from 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom. Store the Canadian product between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C). Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

<< Drug Index  |  Site Root >>