Metformin Hydrochloride

 Glucophage® (metformin hydrochloride) is a prescription medicine licensed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It can help lower blood sugar levels by decreasing the amount of sugar made by the liver and the amount of sugar absorbed into the body from the diet.
 
The medication comes in a tablet form, two long-acting forms, and a liquid version. These products are taken by mouth, usually one to three times a day.
 
Even though most people tolerate metformin well, side effects are possible. In clinical studies, some of the most common side effects that were reported with this medicine included nausea or vomiting, abdominal discomfort, indigestion, and headaches.
 
(Click Metformin for more information on how this medicine works, to learn more about its effects, and to find out what you should discuss with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD