Does metformin cause hypoglycemia?
Metformin rarely produces hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels) because it does not change how much insulin is secreted by the pancreas and does not cause high insulin levels. But metformin toxicity or overdosage that causes lactic acidosis has been associated with hypoglycemia. Experts believe the cause may be increased glucose consumption due to anaerobic metabolism, coupled with a decreased oral intake of food and carbohydrates, decreased liver glucose production, and decreased glucose absorption.
The combination of metformin with a persistently poor diet or other medications that can cause hypoglycemia, such as sulfonylureas, can also lead to hypoglycemia.
When metformin is taken as directed by a doctor it does not cause hypoglycemia.
References
- Aldobeaban S, Mzahim B, Alshehri AA. Recurrent hypoglycemia secondary to metformin toxicity in the absence of co-ingestions: a case report. J Med Case Rep. 2018;12(1):223. Published 2018 Aug 18. doi:10.1186/s13256-018-1758-0
- Metformin. Revised 11/2020. Legacy Pharmaceutical Packaging, LLC. https://www.drugs.com/pro/metformin.html
Read next
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Metformin will usually start lowering your blood sugar (glucose) levels in the first week of treatment, but it may take 2 to 3 months to see its full effect. Metformin is a preferred initial oral treatment for people with type 2 diabetes, and is usually taken on a long-term basis. It may be combined with other blood glucose-lowering treatments, if needed. Continue reading
When is the best time to take metformin?
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Most experts consider metformin to be the safest medicine for type 2 diabetes because it has been used for many decades, is effective, affordable, and safe. Metformin is recommended as a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Continue reading
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Drug information
- Metformin Information for Consumers
- Metformin prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Metformin (detailed)
- Metformin user reviews (655)
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