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Information on the Medicine Metformin

Metformin is an antidiabetic oral medication used to control low blood sugar in adults and children. Prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, metformin can be taken in combination with insulin and other type 2 diabetes medications.

  1. Secondary Uses

    • Off-label uses of metformin include treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and weight loss.

    Drug Manufacturer

    • In the United States, metformin is manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis.

    Brand Names

    • In the United States, metformin is sold as Fortamet, Glucophage, Glucophage XR, Glumetza and Riomet.

    Warnings

    • Because alcohol is known to lower blood sugar, it should be avoided when taking metformin. This drug should not be taken with medications known to raise blood sugar including isoniazid, steroids (prednisone), phenothiazines (Compazine), thyroid medicine (Synthroid), birth control, hormone supplements, seizure medicines (Dilantin), diet pills, asthma, cold and allergy medications.

    Side Effects

    • Side effects may include shortness of breath, swelling, fever, chills, body aches and flu symptoms.

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