Metformin Tips from Pharmacists

• Taking metformin with meals can help prevent gastric side effects such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and indigestion.

• Avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol in a short period while on metformin treatment. Binge drinking increases the risk of lactic acidosis, a potentially life-threatening complication.

• Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of these rare but serious symptoms while on metformin - extreme tiredness, weakness, severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, reduced appetite, shortness of breath, rapid and deep breathing, dizziness, lightheadedness, abnormally fast or slow heart rate, flushed skin, feeling cold, and muscle aches. 

• Keep all your doctors’ appointments while taking metformin. Your doctor may order some blood tests while you are on this medicine to see how well it is working as well as the medicine’s effects on your body.