• Metformin is an oral antidiabetic medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It is used to control high blood sugar.

How should you take this medication?

• Take this medication by mouth, usually twice a day with meals or as directed by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication.
   
• Do not crush, chew, or break an extended-release tablet. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body.
   
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.

General Precautions with Metformin

• Before taking Metformin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, or if you have any other allergies.
   
• Do not use metformin if you have kidney disease, or if you are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis.
   
• Before taking glucophage,, tell your doctor if you have liver disease or a history of heart disease.

What are the possible side effects of Metformin?

• Get emergency medical help if you have any of these symptoms of lactic acidosis: weakness, increasing sleepiness, slow heart rate, cold feeling, muscle pain, shortness of breath, stomach pain, feeling light-headed, and fainting.
   
• This medication does not usually cause low blood sugar. However, low blood sugar may occur, especially if you take other medications for diabetes, drink large amounts of alcohol, do unusually heavy exercise, or do not consume enough calories from food. Symptoms  To help prevent low blood sugar, eat meals on a regular schedule, and do not skip meals.