Metformin 

Metformin 

Metformin is an essential diabetes medication primarily used to treat and manage type 2 diabetes by reducing blood glucose levels and enhancing insulin sensitivity. It also offers cardiovascular benefits and may help in weight management. Available in immediate and extended-release forms, it’s known for a low risk of hypoglycemia and is well-studied with a strong safety record. Routine monitoring and consultation with healthcare professionals are recommended during treatment.

Product Overview 

Metformin is a cornerstone medication for managing type 2 diabetes. It is renowned for its ability to effectively lower blood glucose levels by decreasing liver glucose production and increasing insulin sensitivity in muscle cells. It is also used off-label in some cancer treatments and as adjunct therapy in type 1 diabetes in some instances. Metformin comes in various forms, including immediate and extended-release tablets, tailored to meet individual treatment needs with strengths ranging from 500 mg to 1000 mg.

This medication not only aids in managing blood sugar levels but also offers benefits such as weight management and potential cardiovascular protection and may even have anti-aging effects. It’s particularly noted for its minimal risk of causing hypoglycemia when used alone and its ability to improve lipid profiles and possibly reduce cancer risk.

Despite its numerous benefits, Metformin requires careful usage with routine monitoring of kidney function and blood glucose levels. It should be taken with meals to reduce stomach upset, and a dosing schedule should be followed, which may vary based on individual health needs. Patients are advised to avoid excessive alcohol consumption and consult healthcare providers before starting treatment, especially in cases of severe illness or if undergoing surgical procedures.

Uses of Metformin 

• Type 2 diabetes
• Off-label use in some cancer treatments
• Adjunct therapy in type 1 diabetes (in some cases)

Benefits of Metformin

• Lowers blood glucose levels.
• Improves insulin sensitivity.
• Reduces liver glucose production.
• Helps with weight management.
• It can potentially lower the frequency of heart events.
• Potentially reduces cancer risk.
• Enhances fertility in some PCOS patients.
• It may have anti-aging effects.
• Relatively inexpensive medication.
• May help prevent diabetes in at-risk individuals.
• Minimal risk of hypoglycemia when used alone.
• It may have neuroprotective effects.

Side Effects of Metformin 

Common side effects of Metformin may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Loss of appetite
• Metallic taste in my mouth
• Gas (flatulence)
• Weakness
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Muscle pain
• Mild weight loss
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Vitamin B12 deficiency (with long-term use)
• Lactic acidosis (rare but serious)

[Note: This list is not exhaustive; if you notice any other symptoms not mentioned above, consult your doctor immediately.]

Metformin Dosage

Forms & Strengths

Immediate-release tablets:

• 500 mg
• 850 mg
• 1000 mg

Extended-release tablets:

• 500 mg
• 750 mg
• 1000 mg

Recommended Dosages

For Type 2 Diabetes in Adults:

• Initial dose: 500 mg orally twice daily or 850 mg once a day.
• Maintenance dose: Gradually increase, based on glycemic control and tolerability, to a maximum of 2000-2550 mg per day, taken in divided doses.

For Type 2 Diabetes in Children (10 years & older):

• Initial dose: 500 mg orally once daily.
• Maintenance dose: Increase to 500 mg twice a day after one week if necessary. The maximum suggested dose is 2000 mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses.

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):

• Typically: 500 mg orally once a day, gradually increasing to a maximum of 2000 mg per day based on tolerability and treatment response.

How to Take Metformin? 

• Take with meals to reduce stomach upset.
• Start with a low dose and increase gradually.
• Usually taken 2-3 times daily.
• Extended-release forms are taken once daily.
• Swallow whole; do not crush or chew Metformin extended-release tablets.
• Take it at the exact times each day.
• Follow the prescribed dosage carefully.
• Do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor.
• Stay hydrated while taking metformin.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
• Monitor blood sugar levels regularly.
• Report any unusual side effects to your doctor.
• May need dose adjustment during illness or stress.

Missed Dose 

If you miss a metformin dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, If you’re close to the time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and maintain your regular dosing timetable. Do not take two doses simultaneously to make up for the missed dose.

[Note: Do not simultaneously take two doses of Metformin to compensate for a missed dose. This might increase your chances of experiencing side effects.]

Overdose

An overdose of metformin can lead to serious complications, including lactic acidosis, characterized by muscle pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and severe weakness. Immediate healthcare assistance is crucial in these instances.

[Note: If you notice you have taken too much medication, call your local emergency number immediately.]

How Does Metformin Work?

Metformin mainly functions by decreasing the liver’s glucose production. Additionally, it increases insulin sensitivity in muscle cells, which helps them more effectively absorb glucose from the bloodstream. The main effect of metformin is to cut down on the glucose produced by the liver, while it also makes muscle cells more responsive to insulin, aiding in more efficient glucose uptake from the bloodstream.

Important Safety Precautions 

• Monitor Kidney Function: Regularly check kidney function, especially before starting treatment and annually after that.
• Avoid if Severely Ill: Do not use during acute or severe conditions that may affect kidney function, such as dehydration or severe infection.
• Lactic Acidosis Risk: Be aware of the symptoms of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious complexity, and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
• Alcohol Caution: Limit alcohol intake as it increases the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Surgical Procedures: Temporarily discontinue metformin before any major surgical procedures.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult with a healthcare provider about use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Contrast Media: Discontinue before and for 48 hours after receiving iodinated contrast media for diagnostic imaging.
• Diet and Exercise: Maintain a proper diet and exercise regimen to improve metformin’s effectiveness and manage blood sugar levels.
• Regular Blood Sugar Monitoring: Monitor blood glucose levels for effective diabetes management.
• Medication Interactions: Discuss other medications you take with your healthcare provider to avoid interactions.

Storage 

• Keep at room temperature (20°C to 25°C).
• Protect from light and moisture.
• Store in the original container.
• Keep the container tightly closed.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not store it in the bathroom.
• Avoid excessive heat.
• Do not freeze.
• Do not use it after the expiration date.
• Discard unused medication properly.
• Keep track of remaining tablets.
• Do not transfer to other containers.
• Store away from direct sunlight.
• If traveling, keep in carry-on luggage.

Metformin Interactions 

• Alcohol: Increases risk of lactic acidosis.
• Iodinated contrast agents: Risk of causing acute renal injury.
• Cimetidine: May increase metformin levels.
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors: Associated with a higher risk of lactic acidosis.
• Diuretics: These may increase the risk of dehydration and lactic acidosis.
• Glucocorticoids: May increase blood glucose levels.
• Thyroid medications: May decrease metformin effectiveness.
• ACE inhibitors: May enhance the hypoglycemic effect.
• Calcium channel blockers: May affect glucose control.
• Beta-blockers: May mask signs of hypoglycemia.
• Nifedipine: May increase metformin absorption.
• Cationic drugs: May reduce metformin elimination.
• Ranolazine: May lead to higher metformin levels.
• Vandetanib: May boost the levels of metformin.
• Topiramate: Potentially raises the risk of lactic acidosis.
• NSAIDs: Can heighten the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Oral contraceptives: May affect glucose control.

[Note: This list of interactions isn’t complete. Talk to your doctor if you notice any interaction with food, over-the-counter drugs, prescriptions, or supplements.]

Metformin Alternatives 

• Glucotrol (glipizide)
• DiaBeta, Glynase (glyburide)
• Amaryl (glimepiride)
• Prandin (repaglinide)
• Starlix (nateglinide)
• Januvia (sitagliptin)
• Onglyza (saxagliptin)
• Tradjenta (linagliptin)
• Farxiga (dapagliflozin)
• Jardiance (empagliflozin)

[Note: Your healthcare provider will choose which Metformin alternative is best for you. Taking or consuming them by yourself may cause serious side effects.] 

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if you discontinue metformin?

Discontinuing Metformin may raise your blood sugar levels, as the medication helps to keep them controlled. If you’re considering stopping Metformin due to side effects or other concerns, consult your healthcare provider first. Many people find that side effects are temporary or can be mitigated by switching to the long-acting form of Metformin.

How does metformin affect your kidneys?

Metformin is excreted through the kidneys, so if you have pre-existing kidney issues, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider before beginning treatment. While metformin does not typically impact healthy kidneys, regular blood tests are necessary while on this medication to ensure your kidneys remain healthy.

Is it possible to split a metformin tablet into two halves?

You can divide short-acting metformin tablets into two halves. However, long-acting or extended-release (ER) metformin tablets should not be split and must be swallowed whole.

Is it okay to take metformin on an empty stomach?

It is recommended that Metformin be taken with food to avoid stomach upset. Taking Metformin without eating can increase the likelihood of experiencing side effects like nausea and diarrhea.

Our Guarantee

At Arctic Meds, we guarantee you will find the most competitive prices for purchasing Metformin through our platform. As the best Canadian online pharmacy, we are a team committed to delivering only the highest quality products. Each order is fulfilled through a reputable and licensed Canada pharmacy online, ensuring that every product we ship meets stringent standards of quality and authenticity. Our reliable service ships your medications directly from Canada right to your doorstep. For seamless access to buy Metformin online from Canada at a low price, contact us.