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Metformin is a prescription drug used in treating type-2 diabetes by reducing blood glucose (sugar) levels. It belongs to a class of drugs known as biguanides and works by reducing glucose production in the liver and increasing insulin sensitivity in the body. Metformin is based on the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) – metformin hydrochloride, which is commonly used in its salt form. Metformin is available in the form of extended-release tablets, immediate-release tablets and oral solution. It is often prescribed as a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes, where diet and lifestyle changes do not have a significant impact.
Diabetes worsens over time, but taking care of your lifestyle can help you avoid taking more medication. A study by the National Institutes of Health revealed that patients in the lifestyle intervention group who followed a low-calorie, low-fat diet combined with 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week saw a 67% reduction in their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
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Book a Free SessionMetformin is a medication used to treat diabetes. Here are some Metformin tablet uses for different medical conditions, such as:
Metformin 500 mg uses also extend to
women. Those with conditions like PCOS
are at times advised to consume
Metformin to help regulate their menstrual cycles and improve insulin sensitivity.
As per Frontiers, Metformin may be used in some cases to
help manage high blood sugar levels
during pregnancy.
As per the Mayo Clinic, Metformin 500 mg uses also include the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It helps people prevent or delay the development of type 2 diabetes.
Metformin may be used off-label to help
with weight loss in people who are
overweight or obese, especially if they also
have insulin resistance or prediabetes.
It is important to note that Metformin 500 mg uses for these conditions are subjective. Metformin must only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, and the risks and benefits of the medication should be carefully considered for each individual patient.
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Book a Free SessionThe ideal Metformin dosage depends on numerous
factors like age, current health status, medical history
and other medications one may be taking.
Metformin hydrochloride oral tablets are available as
immediate-release tablets (start working instantly)
and the extended-release tablets (start working after a certain period of time).
Immediate-release metformin is available as 500, 850,
and 1000 mg. Whereas, extended-release metformin is
available as 500, 750, and 1000 mg.
The usual starting Metformin dosage
(immediate-release) is 500 mg or 850 mg once or
twice in a day, along with meals (may be increased
with time). The maximum recommended dose one
should consume is 2550 mg.
| Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1-2 | - | - | 500 mg |
| Week 3-4 | 500 mg | - | 500 mg |
| Week 5-6 | 500 mg | 500 mg | 500 mg |
Recommended Metformin dose in case of
extended-release tablets is 500 mg once
daily, taken with the evening meal. The
maximum recommended dose is 2000 mg/
day, taken as two divided doses. Extended-
release metformin is meant to show its effect
slowly over time, so it's important not to crush,
chew, or break the tablet.
Generally, your doctor might recommend starting the Metformin dose with dinner to initially get rid of the
symptoms. If required, your Metformin dose might be increased to 850 mg or more based on your Blood
Glucose Level (BGL) readings.
However, it is essential to note that Metformin dosage for diabetes should be individualized based on the
patient's response and tolerance to the medication. Patients with kidney or liver problems or who are elderly
may require lower doses of metformin.
Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare provider who can determine the appropriate Metformin
dosage for diabetes as per the patient’s needs.
As per the NIH, Metformin tablets, in general, primarily contain metformin hydrochloride as the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). The tablets may also include various excipients, which are inactive ingredients used to help with the manufacturing, stability, and administration of the medication.
The specific excipients can vary depending on the manufacturer and formulation, but common excipients found in metformin hydrochloride tablets may include:
It is often used as a filler or diluent in tablet formulations.
It serves as a binder, helping to hold the tablet together.
This ingredient helps in disintegrating the tablet, allowing it to break down quickly when swallowed.
It is a lubricant used during the tablet manufacturing process to prevent sticking to the equipment.
It is a polymer used as a coating to improve the tablet's appearance and aid in swallowing.
This is a coloring agent used to give the tablet its white color.
Below is a sample composition chart of Metformin Hydrochloride Extended (Sustained) Release 500 MG Tablet:
| Metformin HCl | 500mg |
|---|---|
| HPMC K15M | 240 to 480mg |
| PVP K30 | 50 to 150mg |
| Magnesium stearate | 5 mg |
| Talcum powder | 5 mg |
| MCC(Avicel PH101) | qs to 1150mg |
*qs:quantity sufficient; HPMC K15M: hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose of K15M
viscosity grade; PVP K30:polyvinyl pyrrolidonec of viscosity grade; MCC: Micro-
crystalline cellulose
Please note that the specific composition of metformin hydrochloride tablets can vary between different brands and formulations. It is always best to refer to the product packaging, prescribing information, or consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist for accurate and up-to-date information on a particular brand or formulation of metformin hydrochloride tablets.
The ideal directions for use of Metformin tablets vary depending on the type of tablet
(immediate-release or
extended-release) and individual medical needs.
Some general guidelines one should follow for taking metformin tablets:
Swallow the Metformin tablets whole with water, and don't crush, chew, or break them unless directed by your doctor.
Take the tablets at the same time(s)
every day to maintain consistent blood
sugar levels.
If you miss a dose, skip it and continue with your regular dosing schedule. But if you're unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Do not stop taking Metformin tablets without first consulting your doctor, as it can cause a sudden increase in blood sugar levels.
Generally, Metformin hydrochloride is treated as a safe option for people with type 2 diabetes. However, it
may be contraindicated or not recommended some situations like:
As stated by the Mayo Clinic, Metformin can build up lactic acid in the bloodstream, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis. Therefore, metformin is not recommended for people with severe kidney disease.
Metformin contraindications also include certain liver diseases. Consuming Metformin can also increase the risk of lactic acidosis in people with liver disease or alcohol abuse. Before consumption, consult your doctor to know if you have optimal liver health for Metformin.
Metformin may increase the risk of heart failure in people with heart diseases or unstable angina. It is generally not recommended for people with these conditions.
Allergy is another Metformin contraindication. People who are allergic or sensitive to metformin should ask their physician for a safer alternative.
Metformin can escalate the issue for people with severe infections or illnesses. Therefore, it may be temporarily discontinued for these people.
Use of contrast dye in imaging tests such as CT scan or MRI can be another Metformin contraindication. According to the BioMed Central, this is because use of metformin can increase the risk of CI-AKI when undergoing contrasting imaging. It is generally recommended to stop taking metformin before these tests and wait for 48 hours before resuming the medication.
It’s important to consult your healthcare provider doctor regarding your ongoing medications and medical conditions before starting metformin.
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Metformin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. Here are some precautions you should take while
taking Metformin:
Metformin is eliminated from the body by the kidneys, so it is important to make sure your kidneys are functioning properly before taking this medication. Your doctor may order a blood test to check your kidney function before prescribing Metformin.
Your doctor may want to monitor your liver function with blood tests, as Metformin can affect liver function in rare cases.
Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Metformin, as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
Drinking plenty of fluids can help reduce the risk of lactic acidosis while taking Metformin.
If you are scheduled for surgery, inform your doctor that you are taking Metformin. You may need to stop the medication before surgery and resume it afterwards.
Talk to your doctor before taking Metformin during pregnancy or breastfeeding, although it is generally considered safe for use.
Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking before starting Metformin, as some drugs can interact with Metformin and increase the risk of side effects.
The National Institutes of Health says that Metformin is generally a safe and well-tolerated medication, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. Some of the mild side effects that may occur with metformin include:
Side effects of Metformin 500mg also include indigestion, that causes discomfort or pain in the stomach or abdomen. Symptoms may include bloating or an upset stomach.
One of the metformin 500 mg side effects is diarrhea. Metformin can increase the amount of fluid in the intestines, leading to more frequent bowel movements and loose stools.
Metformin 500mg side effects also include nausea. Some people may experience a feeling of nausea or an urge to vomit when taking Metformin. This may be related to effects on the digestive system.
Some people may experience headaches, which is one of the common Metformin side effects. These headaches are usually mild and go away on their own.
Metformin can cause vomiting in some cases, probably with people who have low tolerance to medications.
Metformin may cause an increase in the production of gas in the intestines, leading to flatulence or belching.
Here is a complete list of side effects, as per the NHS.
Metformin in some cases may also cause severe side effects such as:
Metformin 500mg side effects
also include low vitamin B12
levels. At times, Metformin can
interfere with the absorption of
vitamin B12 in the intestine,
leading to deficiency. Low
vitamin B12 levels can cause
fatigue, weakness, numbness/
tingling in the hands and feet.
This can happen if the dose of
metformin is too high or if it is
taken in combination with other
diabetes medications. Symptoms
of hypoglycemia can include
sweating, shaking, confusion,
dizziness, and fainting.
It is among some rare but serious
Metformin 500mg side effects that
occurs due to buildup of lactic acid
in the bloodstream. Metformin can
cause lactic acidosis if it is taken in
high doses. Symptoms of lactic
acidosis include nausea, vomiting,
abdominal pain, rapid breathing,
and confusion.
Low vitamin B12 levels: Metformin 500mg side effects also include low vitamin B12 levels. At times, Metformin can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12 in the intestine, leading to deficiency. Low vitamin B12 levels can cause fatigue, weakness, numbness/tingling in the hands and feet.
Lactic acidosis: It is among some rare but serious Metformin 500mg side effects that occurs due to buildup of lactic acid in the bloodstream. Metformin can cause lactic acidosis if it is taken in high doses. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rapid breathing, and confusion.
Low vitamin B12 levels: Metformin 500mg side effects also include low vitamin B12 levels. At times, Metformin can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12 in the intestine, leading to deficiency. Low vitamin B12 levels can cause fatigue, weakness, numbness/tingling in the hands and feet.
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Metformin 1000 mg or any other dosage of the drug can interact with certain medications and substances, which can increase the risk of side effects. Here are some of the interactions of metformin:
NIH research suggests that excessive alcohol consumption may contribute to the development of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia when combined with metformin, a rare but serious side effect of the medication.
Taking metformin with other diabetes medications that lower blood sugar, such as insulin or sulfonylureas, can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
As mentioned earlier, metformin can interfere with imaging tests that use contrast dye. It is generally recommended to stop taking metformin before these tests and wait for 48 hours before resuming the medication.
Some blood pressure medications, such as ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), can decrease the effectiveness of metformin.
Vitamin B12 supplements can help prevent vitamin B12 deficiency caused by metformin, but they can also decrease the effectiveness of the medication.
Some antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin, can increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with metformin. Also, consuming Metformin along with Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, combiflam and naproxen, can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking
before starting metformin or any other medication.
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An overdose of Metformin 1000 mg (or a higher/lower dosage) can be very serious and can lead to severe
side effects, including lactic acidosis, a buildup of lactic acid in the blood that can be life-threatening.
Symptoms of an overdose may include:
Nausea/vomiting
Rapid breathing or 
Diarrhea
Muscle pain or 
Stomach pain
Confusion or 
Dizziness or 
Seizures
If you suspect that you or someone else has taken too much metformin, it is important to seek emergency
medical attention immediately.
Treatment for a metformin overdose typically involves monitoring vital signs, administering fluids and
electrolytes, and treating any underlying medical conditions. In severe cases, dialysis may be necessary to
remove the medication from the bloodstream.
It is important to take metformin only as directed by your healthcare provider and to never take more than
the prescribed dose.
For all additional questions,
please feel free to contact us!
Metformin is an oral drug primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. However, it may also be used to treat other health conditions like:
The administration of metformin, an oral drug for treating type 2 diabetes, may differ among pregnant or nursing women, children, and elderly individuals based on numerous factors such as personal medical history, present health condition, and their healthcare provider's recommendation.
Pregnant women ought to consult with their physician prior to using metformin, as it has the potential to pass through the placenta and impact the fetus. Similarly, nursing mothers should seek their doctor's advice before using metformin since it can be secreted in breast milk.
Both children and elderly individuals are more prone to metformin's side effects, so their dosage might need modification. A healthcare professional is best suited to decide if metformin is suitable for a person after considering their unique situation.
While taking metformin for diabetes management, certain foods should be limited or avoided, such as:
Keep in mind that dietary suggestions may differ based on an individual's medical background, health condition, and other factors. For personalized dietary advice when using metformin, consult a healthcare professional.
Indeed, there can be interactions between metformin oral and other medications. It is crucial to notify your healthcare professional of all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are using prior to commencing metformin treatment. A few examples of medications that might interact with metformin include:
It's crucial to have a chat with your healthcare professional about any possible drug interactions before you dive into taking metformin or any other medication. Be informed and stay safe!
Metformin is a drug prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes by reducing glucose production in the liver and enhancing insulin sensitivity. Although generally safe and effective, certain individuals should refrain from taking metformin. Those with serious kidney or liver conditions may struggle to process the medication, leading to an increased risk of toxicity.
People with heart failure or a history of lactic acidosis should also steer clear of metformin due to potential negative side effects. Furthermore, it is advised that pregnant or breastfeeding women consult their healthcare professional before using metformin, as its safety during pregnancy and lactation remains unconfirmed.
In India, managing type 2 diabetes often involves medications other than metformin. Here's a list of top Metformin alternatives:
A healthcare provider will recommend the most suitable alternative to metformin based on factors like a patient's health status, blood sugar control, and any existing medical conditions.
Metformin is a medication that is often recommended as the preferred treatment for type-2 diabetes due to its many benefits. Metformin primarily functions by reducing the blood sugar levels, which is done by limiting the glucose released by the liver. Additionally, it improves the body's ability to utilize insulin, further assisting in the regulation of blood sugar levels.
Unlike other medications used to treat diabetes, Metformin is less likely to cause low blood sugar and may even help with weight loss. Studies have also shown that Metformin can help reduce the risk of heart disease and overall mortality in people with type-2 diabetes. Moreover, Metformin is an inexpensive medication that can be used safely as the first-line treatment for type-2 diabetes.
It is advised to eat a healthy, balanced diet that contains complex carbs, such as whole grains and vegetables, while limiting simple sugars and processed carbohydrates when using Metformin. This aids in controlling blood sugar levels and avoiding glucose spikes. Furthermore, it’s highly recommended to avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which when combined with Metformin raises the risk of lactic acidosis. To ensure that their diabetes is managed as effectively as possible, patients should talk to their healthcare professional about their dietary requirements and limits.
If you missed your dose of Metformin, immediately take it when you recall. However, if it's almost time for the next dose, you can take it and skip the missed one. It’s not a good practice to take an extra dose to compensate for the missed one, as it can cause serious overdosing side effects. If you have any concerns regarding missed doses or the management of your medication regimen, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.
It is advised to store Metformin at room temperature (up to 25° C) away from heat, and keep it away from children and pets. Also, it is recommended to keep this drug away from direct sunlight, and damp/moist areas such as bathrooms as it may cause the drug to lose its efficacy.
Always check the expiration date of Metformin before buying, and keep it tightly concealed in its original container.
Metformin is a drug that is frequently prescribed for Type-2 diabetes, and there are numerous brands of it on the market. Many of the well-known Metformin brands available in India are:
Prices of Metformin tablets may vary on various factors, such as the brand of the drug, its manufacturing company, location purchased from, pharmacy stores etc. Here are the prices of a strip of 10 Metformin tablets from different brands:
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Prana Health Inc,
108 West 13th Street,
Wilmington, DE 19801
IO Digital , 100 Feet Rd,
Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road,
Ghitorni, New Delhi, Delhi 110030
BGL
HbA1c:
