Generic name: metformin (oral route) [ met-FOR-min-hye-droe-KLOR-ide ]
Drug class:Non-sulfonylureas
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 14, 2022.
Death, hypothermia, hypotension, and resistant bradyarrhythmias have been reported due to metformin-associated lactic acidosis. Onset may be subtle and include nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, myalgia, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal distress; laboratory abnormalities include low pH, increased anion gap and elevated blood lactate. The risk of lactic acidosis increases with renal or hepatic impairment, aged 65 years or older, having a radiological study with contrast, surgery, or other procedures, hypoxic states, and excessive alcohol intake. If lactic acidosis is suspected, metformin hydrochloride should be discontinued, supportive measures started in a hospital setting. Prompt hemodialysis is recommended .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Fortamet
- Glucophage
- Glucophage XR
- Glumetza
- Riomet
- Riomet ER
In Canada
- ACT metFORMIN
- AG-metFORMIN - Blackberry
- AG-metFORMIN - Unflavored
- APO-metFORMIN
- APO-metFORMIN ER
- AURO-metFORMIN
- AVA-metFORMIN
- Bio-metFORMIN
- Dom-metFORMIN
Available Dosage Forms:
- Tablet, Extended Release
- Suspension, Extended Release
- Tablet
- Solution
- Tablet, Extended Release, 24 HR
Therapeutic Class: Hypoglycemic
Chemical Class: Metformin
Uses for APO-metFORMIN ER
Metformin is used to treat high blood sugar levels that are caused by a type of diabetes mellitus or sugar diabetes called type 2 diabetes. With this type of diabetes, insulin produced by the pancreas is not able to get sugar into the cells of the body where it can work properly. Using metformin alone, with a type of oral antidiabetic medicine called a sulfonylurea, or with insulin, will help to lower blood sugar when it is too high and help restore the ..
