Metformin is a first‑line drug for type 2 diabetes. It lowers liver glucose production and helps your body use insulin better. Lots of people take it safely, but knowing how to use it right makes a big difference. Below are clear, practical points so you can talk to your doctor with confidence.
Doctors usually prescribe metformin when diet and exercise alone don’t keep blood sugar in range. It’s the go‑to for most people with type 2 diabetes and is sometimes used for PCOS to improve insulin resistance. Metformin doesn’t cause weight gain and may help a little with weight loss for some people.
Because the drug is cleared by the kidneys, your provider checks kidney function (eGFR) before starting and periodically after that. If your eGFR is very low, metformin may be stopped or avoided. Also tell your clinician if you plan imaging with iodinated contrast, have heavy alcohol use, or face severe dehydration—these raise rare but serious risks.
Typical starting doses: 500 mg once or twice daily with food to reduce stomach upset. Providers often increase the dose slowly over several weeks to 1500 mg up to 2000 mg per day, split into two or three doses. There’s an extended‑release (XR) version you can take once daily; don’t crush XR tablets. Follow your prescription exactly.
GI side effects are common at first: nausea, diarrhea, bloating, and gas. They usually fade after a few weeks. To cut these down, start low and increase slowly, take metformin with a meal, and try the XR formulation if side effects persist.
A rare but serious issue is lactic acidosis. Watch for unusual tiredness, muscle pain, trouble breathing, dizziness, stomach pain with vomiting, or slow heartbeat. If those symptoms appear, get medical help right away. Routine monitoring and avoiding high‑risk situations keep this risk very low.
Long‑term metformin can reduce vitamin B12 absorption in some people. Your doctor may check B12 levels if you have symptoms like numbness, tingling, or anemia.
If you miss a dose, take it with your next meal—don’t double up. Store tablets at room temperature away from moisture. Use a licensed pharmacy and a current prescription; avoid unverified online sellers.
Keep tracking your blood sugar and A1C as advised. Metformin often works best combined with lifestyle changes: balanced meals, regular activity, and weight control. If you add other diabetes medicines, your care team will adjust doses to prevent low blood sugar.
When to call your doctor: unexpected severe stomach pain, persistent vomiting, signs of lactic acidosis, yellowing skin, sudden shortness of breath, or any new symptoms that worry you. For dose changes, pregnancy planning, or side effects that won’t settle, schedule a visit.
GetMaple Pharmaceuticals Canada aims to give clear, useful summaries on meds like metformin. Use this as a starting point and check with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your situation.
