Metformin Aurobindo (Metformin Hydrochloride)

Metformin Aurobindo is used to improve glycaemic control in disorders of glucose metabolism.

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus: lowers fasting and post‑prandial blood glucose levels.
• Prediabetes (impaired fasting glucose): helps delay progression to overt diabetes.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome: may improve insulin resistance and restore ovulatory function.

• Metformin Hydrochloride reduces hepatic gluconeogenesis and increases peripheral glucose uptake by activating AMP‑activated protein kinase (AMPK). This leads to decreased hepatic glucose output and enhanced insulin‑mediated glucose utilization in muscle and adipose tissue, improving overall glycaemic control without stimulating insulin secretion.

Metformin is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate upset stomach.
• Diarrhoea: frequent loose stools, especially during dose titration.
• Abdominal discomfort: cramping or bloating.
• Metallic taste: transient alteration in taste perception.
• Weight loss: modest reduction in body weight.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency: decreased absorption with long‑term use.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Lactic acidosis: rare but life‑threatening metabolic acidosis.
• Severe skin reactions: such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Hepatic dysfunction: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Hypoglycaemia: when combined with insulin or secretagogues.
• Anemia: due to reduced red‑cell production.
• Pancreatitis: inflammation of the pancreas.

Metformin should be used with attention to patient‑specific risk factors.

• Renal function: assess creatinine clearance before initiation and periodically thereafter.
• Hepatic disease: avoid in patients with significant liver impairment.
• Lactic acidosis risk: discontinue before radiographic contrast studies or major surgery.
• Pregnancy and lactation: evaluate risk‑benefit ratio; use only if clearly needed.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications that may affect metformin clearance.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C in the original container, protect from moisture and light.

Metformin may interact with several medicines, requiring monitoring or avoidance.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Iodinated contrast agents: increase risk of lactic acidosis; hold metformin before and after use.
• Cimetidine: can raise metformin plasma concentrations.
• Alcohol excess: potentiates lactic acidosis risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Beta‑blockers: may mask hypoglycaemia symptoms.
• Diuretics (especially thiazides): can affect renal clearance of metformin.
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: monitor renal function and potassium.
• Other antidiabetic agents: adjust dose to avoid hypoglycaemia.
• Thyroid hormones: may alter glucose metabolism, requiring glucose monitoring.