Metformin – Uses, Side Effects, Dosage & Pill Identifier
Pharmacologic Class: Biguanide antihyperglycemic agent
Brand Names
FORTAMET; GLUCOPHAGE; Glyburide and Metformin Hydrochloride; KOMBIGLYZE; Metformin Hydrochloride; Pioglitazone and Metformin Hydrocholride; Pioglitazone and metformin; metformin hydrochloride
What Is Metformin Used For?
"Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus."
Available Forms & Dosage
| Forms | Tablet; Tablet, Extended Release; Tablet, Film Coated; Tablet, Film Coated, Extended Release |
|---|---|
| Strengths | GLYBURIDE 1.25 mg;METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE 250 mg; GLYBURIDE 2.5 mg;METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE 500 mg; METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE 1000 mg; METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE 500 mg; METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE 750 mg; METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE 850 mg; PIOGLITAZONE HYDROCHLORIDE 15 mg;METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE 500 mg; metformin hydrochloride 850 mg; pioglitazone hydrochloride 15 mg;metformin hydrochloride 850 mg; saxagliptin hydrochloride 5 mg;metformin hydrochloride 1000 mg |
Always follow the dose and schedule your prescriber or the product label specifies — do not change your dose based on this page.
All Pill Identifiers for Metformin (1016)
Every pill in our database containing this medication. Click a pill to see its imprint, shape, colour, and manufacturer in detail.
Metformin Side Effects
Most common adverse reactions (>5%) more frequent than placebo: diarrhea (10%), nausea/vomiting (7%). Additional reactions at 1-5% include abdominal pain, constipation, flatulence, dyspepsia, headache, and taste disturbance.
This is not a complete list of side effects. Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
Metformin Warnings & Precautions
BOXED WARNING - LACTIC ACIDOSIS: Postmarketing cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis have caused death, hypothermia, hypotension, and resistant bradyarrhythmias. Symptoms included malaise, myalgias, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal pain. Risk factors include renal impairment, certain drug combinations, age over 65, contrast imaging procedures, surgery, hypoxic states, excessive alcohol, and hepatic impairment. If lactic acidosis is suspected, discontinue immediately and seek prompt hemodialysis. Additional Warnings: - Vitamin B12 deficiency may occur; monitor hematologic parameters annually and B12 levels every 2-3 years - Increased hypoglycemia risk when combined with insulin or insulin secretagogues - No conclusive evidence of macrovascular risk reduction
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Metformin used for?
"Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus."
What are the common side effects of Metformin?
Most common adverse reactions (>5%) more frequent than placebo: diarrhea (10%), nausea/vomiting (7%). Additional reactions at 1-5% include abdominal pain, constipation, flatulence, dyspepsia, headache, and taste disturbance.
What forms does Metformin come in?
Tablet; Tablet, Extended Release; Tablet, Film Coated; Tablet, Film Coated, Extended Release
What are the brand names for Metformin?
FORTAMET; GLUCOPHAGE; Glyburide and Metformin Hydrochloride; KOMBIGLYZE; Metformin Hydrochloride; Pioglitazone and Metformin Hydrocholride; Pioglitazone and metformin; metformin hydrochloride
Is Metformin safe to take?
Only take this medication as prescribed or directed by a licensed healthcare provider. Always read the full warnings section above and tell your doctor about any other medications you take.