Metformin
DiabetesAlso known as Glucophage, Fortamet
Metformin is usually the first medicine people take for type 2 diabetes. It tells your liver to release less sugar and helps your muscles respond better to insulin. It doesn't cause weight gain and rarely causes low blood sugar on its own, which is why doctors like it as a starting point.
How to take it
When
Usually once or twice a day, exactly as prescribed.
Food
Take it with a meal. Food dramatically reduces the stomach upset it's known for.
Avoid
Heavy or binge drinking — combined with metformin it can stress your body in a dangerous way.
When sick
If you're vomiting, have diarrhea, or can't keep fluids down, call your doctor. They may pause the medicine until you recover.
Missed a dose?
Take it with your next meal and carry on as normal. Don't take a double dose to make up for it.
Common side effects
- Nausea, diarrhea, or a metallic taste — very common in the first weeks and usually settles
- Mild stomach cramps
- Long-term use can lower vitamin B12 — your doctor may check this occasionally
Call a doctor if
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea that won't stop
- Unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, extreme tiredness, or feeling very cold — rare but serious, get help right away
- Signs of dehydration while taking it