Quote:Before taking this medicine

Some people develop a life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis while taking metformin. You may be more likely to develop lactic acidosis if you have liver or kidney disease, congestive heart failure, a severe infection, if you are dehydrated, or if you drink large amounts of alcohol. Talk with your doctor about your individual risk.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to metformin, or if you are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis (call your doctor for treatment with insulin).

If you need to have any type of x-ray or CT scan using a dye that is injected into your veins, you will need to temporarily stop taking metformin.

To make sure you can safely take metformin, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

Quote:Important information

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to metformin, or if you are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis (call your doctor for treatment with insulin).

If you need to have any type of x-ray or CT scan using a dye that is injected into your veins, you will need to temporarily stop taking metformin.
Slideshow: 10 Things to Know About Metformin
10 Things to Know About Metformin

Before taking metformin, tell your doctor if you have liver disease or a history of heart disease.

Some people develop lactic acidosis while taking metformin. Early symptoms may get worse over time and this condition can be fatal. Get emergency medical help if you have even mild symptoms such as: muscle pain or weakness, numb or cold feeling in your arms and legs, trouble breathing, stomach pain, nausea with vomiting, slow or uneven heart rate, dizziness, or feeling very weak or tired.

Quote:How should I take metformin?

Take metformin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.

Take metformin with a meal, unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Some forms of metformin are taken only once daily with the evening meal. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Metformin is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. It is important to use this medicine regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Do not crush, chew, or break an extended-release metformin tablet (Glucophage XR). Swallow the pill whole. Breaking the pill may cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.

Your blood sugar will need to be checked often, and you may need other blood tests at your doctor's office. Visit your doctor regularly.

Check your blood sugar carefully during a time of stress or illness, if you travel, exercise more than usual, drink alcohol, or skip meals. These things can affect your glucose levels and your dose needs may also change.

Your doctor may want you to stop taking metformin for a short time if you become ill, have a fever or infection, or if you have surgery or a medical emergency.

Ask your doctor how to adjust your metformin dose if needed. Do not change your medication dose or schedule without your doctor's advice.

Your doctor may have you take extra vitamin B12 while you are taking metformin. Take only the amount of vitamin B12 that your doctor has prescribed.

Store metformin at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Quote:    Anxiety
    blurred vision
    chest discomfort
    cold sweats
    coma
    confusion
    cool, pale skin
    depression
    difficult or labored breathing
    dizziness
    fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse
    feeling of warmth
    headache
    increased hunger
    increased sweating
    nausea
    nervousness
    nightmares
    redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest
    seizures
    shakiness
    shortness of breath
    slurred speech
    tightness in the chest
    unusual tiredness or weakness
    wheezing

Quote:More common

    Abdominal or stomach discomfort
    cough or hoarseness
    decreased appetite
    diarrhea
    fast or shallow breathing
    fever or chills
    general feeling of discomfort
    lower back or side pain
    muscle pain or cramping
    painful or difficult urination
    sleepiness