Metformine Hydrochloride Eg (Eurogenerics) (Metformin Hydrochloride)

• Metformin Hydrochloride is used to improve glycaemic control in several metabolic conditions.
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus: improves fasting and post‑prandial blood glucose levels.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome: reduces insulin resistance and may help restore regular menstrual cycles.
• Prediabetes (impaired fasting glucose): lowers the risk of progression to overt diabetes.

• Metformin Hydrochloride reduces hepatic gluconeogenesis, decreases intestinal glucose absorption, and enhances peripheral insulin sensitivity by activating AMP‑activated protein kinase (AMPK). These actions collectively lower circulating glucose without stimulating insulin secretion, making it effective for managing hyperglycaemia in insulin‑resistant states.

Metformin Hydrochloride may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Diarrhoea: frequent loose stools, especially at treatment initiation.
• Abdominal discomfort: cramping or bloating.
• Metallic taste: transient alteration in taste perception.
• Loss of appetite: reduced desire to eat.
• Flatulence: increased intestinal gas.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Lactic acidosis: rare but life‑threatening metabolic acidosis.
• Severe hypoglycaemia: when combined with insulin or secretagogues.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency: may develop with long‑term use.
• Hepatic dysfunction: rare liver enzyme elevations.
• Skin rash or hypersensitivity: including Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Pancreatitis: very uncommon inflammation of the pancreas.

• Before prescribing Metformin Hydrochloride, clinicians should evaluate several safety considerations.
• Renal function assessment: confirm adequate eGFR before initiation and monitor periodically.
• Lactic acidosis risk: avoid in patients with severe renal, hepatic or cardiac impairment.
• Pregnancy safety: use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus.
• Drug interaction monitoring: review concomitant medications that may affect metformin clearance.
• Vitamin B12 monitoring: consider periodic testing during long‑term therapy.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Metformin Hydrochloride can interact with other medicines, altering its efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Iodinated contrast agents: may precipitate acute renal failure and increase lactic acidosis risk.
• Cimetidine: can raise metformin plasma concentrations.
• Alcohol: potentiates risk of lactic acidosis.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Beta‑blockers: may mask hypoglycaemia symptoms.
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: can affect renal function, requiring dose adjustment.
• Thiazide diuretics: may increase risk of hypoglycaemia.
• NSAIDs: can impair renal clearance of metformin.