Metformin

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Reviewed on Oct 18, 2024. by Mr Craig Marsh Independent Prescriber Registered with GPhC (No. 2070724) Next review due on October 18, 2027.

Last updated on Oct 18, 2024.

Product info

Metformin is a tablet that treats type 2 diabetes.
It reduces glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity.
It’s typically taken two or three times a day with meals.

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Express shipping
24 hour shipping by secure courier.
Consultation + Access to our clinicians
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Metformin: essential info
Metformin: instructions
Important stuff you need to know
FAQ

What is Metformin?

Metformin is a drug that helps treat diabetes. It belongs to the class of drugs called biguanides, which stop your liver from making glucose. ^[1]
This helps you control your blood sugar and also makes your body more responsive to the insulin naturally produced by your pancreas.

Type 2 diabetes is a condition which causes your blood sugar level to get too high. Unstable blood sugar levels can be caused by limited insulin production, or insulin resistance that prevents your body from using insulin effectively.

Metformin is a tablet you take two or three times a day to control your blood sugar as directed by our clinician. It’s available in several different doses under several brand and generic labels including Glucophage, Diagemet, Sukkarto and more.

How does Metformin work?

Metformin lowers your blood sugar levels in many ways. It’s known as an ‘insulin sensitiser’ because, instead of increasing insulin production, it enhances the effect of insulin to lower your blood sugar levels. This allows your body to respond to insulin more effectively.^[1]

Additionally, metformin reduces glucose production in the liver, by decreasing gluconeogenesis, which converts sugar to glucose. It does this by inhibiting key enzymes involved in gluconeogenesis. ^[1]

What doses of Metformin tablets are there?

Metformin is available in two doses: 500mg and 850mg. The only difference between these options is the amount of metformin hydrochloride there is in each one. Our clinician can decide which dose of Metformin you need based on your medical history.

If your kidneys are impaired, they will likely start you on the lower dose. Metformin is also available in an extended-release (ER) form. While both forms contain the same active ingredient, they are taken in different ways.

Treated trusted sources:

Nasri, H., & Rafieian-Kopaei, M. (2014). Metformin: Current knowledge. Journal of Research in Medical Sciences : The Official Journal of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, 19(7), 658-664.

This page was written by The Treated Content Team.

This page was medically reviewed by Mr Craig Marsh on October 18, 2024. Next review due on October 18, 2027.

How we source info.

When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.

How to take Metformin tablets

Taking Metformin tablets is easy and convenient. They should be taken two or three times each day before or with your meals (or once a day if you’re taking the extended release tablets). Don’t crush or bite your Metformin. Swallow it whole with water.

If a clinician has prescribed you with two doses each day, take one with breakfast and one at dinner. Should you need a third dose, take it with your lunch around noon. You should discuss any other medications you’re taking with our clinician before you start using Metformin. There are many drugs that can interact with it.

How long does it take for Metformin tablets to work?

You should experience better control of your blood sugar within one or two weeks of starting Metformin. But it will take about two to three months to see the full benefits.^[1]

If after a couple months, you haven’t noticed any improvements in your sugar levels or you still feel the same way, you should tell your clinician now. They may need to increase your dose or prescribe a different medication for your type 2 diabetes.

What should I do if I make a mistake when taking Metformin?

It’s important that you take Metformin as instructed so that your type 2 diabetes doesn’t worsen. If you forget to take a dose, simply take your next dose on time. Never take twice the dose to make up for a missed one.

Taking too much Metformin can cause your blood sugar levels to dip too low. It can also trigger a life threatening condition called lactic acidosis, which causes vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, you need to seek medical attention immediately.

Treated trusted sources:

‌Mayoclinic.org. (2019). Metformin (Oral Route) Description and Brand Names – Mayo Clinic.

This page was written by The Treated Content Team.

This page was medically reviewed by Mr Craig Marsh on October 18, 2024. Next review due on October 18, 2027.

How we source info.

FAQ: Metformin

Have something specific you want to know? Search our info below, or ask our experts a question if you can’t find what you’re looking for.

How is Metformin different from other treatments for type 2 diabetes?

Answer:

You can get various types of diabetes treatment that function differently to Metformin. Metformin, a biguanides, stops the liver from producing glucose and acts as an insulin sensitiser to enhance the effects of insulin.

Other diabetes treatments, Ozempic (semaglutide) and Victoza (liraglutide) belong to a different class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). They work by mimicking the effect of GLP-1 hormones, which help regulate blood sugar levels. ^[1] So, if you find Metformin isn't working well for you, there are plenty of alternative treatments for you to try.

Furthermore, many other medications contain metformin with other active ingredients, such as: Janumet (Metformin and Sitagliptin) and Competact (Metformin and Pioglitazone). Combination medicines like these can provide a more comprehensive approach to managing diabetes. For example, in Janumet, Sitagliptin stimulates the release of insulin,^[2] while Metformin reduces liver glucose production. This can lead to better overall blood sugar management.

Are Metformin tablets similar to any other treatments?

Answer:

Metformin isn’t the only treatment option that only contains metformin hydrochloride as the active ingredient. Sukkarto, Glucophage, and Diagemet are alternative treatments with similar formulations. The primary differences would be in the pricing, packaging and formulations. The effectiveness shouldn’t vary significantly between different formulations, except in terms of dosages.

Which dose of Metformin should I use?

Answer:

Our clinician can guide you on which dose of Metformin is most appropriate for you. They can decide this based on your health background and if you are taking other medications to help manage your type 2 diabetes. Make sure you follow our clinician’s instructions with your prescription medications.

Do I need a prescription for Metformin tablets?

Answer:

Yes. Metformin is a prescription only medication which can have serious side effects. You’ll also need to be monitored by our clinician for ongoing support with your diabetes.

Treated trusted sources:

Collins L, Costello RA. Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists. [Updated 2023 Jan 13]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.
LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2012-. Sitagliptin. [Updated 2018 Jan 3]