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Metformin
Pronounced met-FOR-min
Brand names: Glucophage, Fortamet
Type: Biguanide (diabetes medicine) · All Diabetes Medicines
What Metformin is used for
- Type 2 diabetes
- Prediabetes, in selected patients on clinician advice
◆ Kidney note
Dose limits and stopping rules apply when kidney function is low, because the drug is cleared by the kidneys and acid buildup risk rises.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Gas
- Metallic taste
Important cautions
- Rarely, a dangerous buildup of lactic acid can occur, mainly when the kidneys or liver are failing or during serious illness
- It is often paused around surgery or scans using contrast dye, on medical advice
How it comes
Tablets, extended-release tablets, liquid. This guide lists forms only — it never lists strengths or doses.
Related medicines — Diabetes Medicines
Condition guides on MedicalVideos.com
Please note: This page is a patient-education summary, not medical advice, and it deliberately contains no doses. Medicines affect everyone differently — always follow your own prescription and talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.