What is Fortamet?
Fortamet can be used in conjunction with diet and exercise for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus to help control blood sugar levels. Fortamet can be used in conjunction with insulin or other medications. However, this medication is not approved for the treatment of type I diabetes. Fortamet can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Fortamet
Immediately seek medical assistance if any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction appear: hives, difficulty breathing and swelling in your face, lips or throat.
Fortamet can cause lactic acidosis. This condition is fatal. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience even mild symptoms, such as:
- Unusual muscle pain;
- Feeling cold
- Trouble breathing
- Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, tired, or very weak
- Stomach pain, vomiting;
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
Side effects of fortamet include:
- Low blood sugar
- Nausea, upset stomach;
There may be other side effects.If you experience side effects, seek medical advice immediately by consulting your physician or calling 1-800-FDA-1088 to report them.
Similar/related drugs
Metformin, Trulicity, Lantus, Victoza, Tresiba, and Levemir
Warnings
Fortamet should not be used if you suffer from severe kidney disease or metabolic acids. Fortamet may be temporarily stopped if you are going to undergo an x-ray, CT scan, or any other type of test that uses a dye injected directly into your veins. You could develop lactic acidosis. This is a dangerous buildup of lactic acid in your blood. If you experience unusual muscle pains, difficulty breathing, stomach pains, dizziness, or feel cold or very tired, call your doctor.
Before you take this drug
Fortamet should not be used if:
- Severe kidney disease
- Diabetic ketoacidosis or metabolic acidosis (contact your doctor immediately for treatment)
Fortamet may be temporarily stopped if you are scheduled for surgery or a type of x-ray or CT scan that uses a dye injected directly into your veins. Tell your caregivers that you're taking this medication in advance.
Tell your doctor about any of the following:
- Kidney disease (you may need to have your kidney function checked before taking this medication);
- High ketone levels are found in the blood or urine.
- Congestive cardiac failure
- Liver disease
- If you are also taking insulin or any other oral diabetes medication,
You can develop lactic acidosis. This is a dangerous buildup of lactic acid in your blood. You may be at greater risk if you suffer from other medical conditions, such as a severe virus or chronic alcoholism. Consult your doctor to determine your risk. If you're pregnant or plan to become pregnant, follow your doctor's advice about this medicine. Fortamet can stimulate ovulation and increase the risk of unintended pregnancies in women who are not yet menopausal. Speak to your doctor regarding your risks. Breastfeeding women must not use this medicine. Fortamet is not recommended for children younger than 10 years of age. Certain forms of metformin cannot be used by children younger than 18 years.
How to take Fortamet?
Carefully read all instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow all directions given. Sometimes your physician will alter the dose; be sure to take it exactly as instructed. Fortamet should be taken with food, unless you are told otherwise by your doctor. Some forms of metformin should only be taken once daily, with your evening meal. Please follow your doctor's advice. Do not chew or crush an extended-release tablet. Swallow the entire tablet. Measuring liquid medicine is important.Use the dosing device provided or an alternate dose-measuring tool (not spoon). Before measuring a dose, shake the orally suspended liquid. Use the dosing device provided or an alternate dose-measuring tool (not spoon). Some tablets have a shell that is not absorbed by the body or melted. Some of the shell may be found in your stool. This is not a problem, and the medication will still be effective.
If you have low blood glucose (hypoglycemia), then you may feel very hungry or dizzy. You might also be confused or anxious. If you want to treat hyperglycemia quickly, consume or drink sugary foods or drinks (fruit juices, hard candies, crackers, or raisins). If you suffer from severe hypoglycemia, your doctor may prescribe an injection kit. Make sure that all members of your family and friends know how to administer this injection. Stress, illness, surgery, and alcohol consumption can affect blood sugar levels. Consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication or dose schedule. Fortamet may be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes diet, exercise, and weight management, as well as blood sugar testing and other medical attention. You should follow your doctor's advice. Store away from moisture, heat and light at room temperature for best results. You may be prescribed extra vitamin B12 by your doctor if you are taking Fortamet. Only take the prescribed amount of vitamin B12 as directed by your doctor.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. An overdose can result in severe hypoglycemia or lactic acidosis.
What should be avoided?
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol lowers your blood sugar levels and can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
Interaction with other drug
Fortamet can be affected by many drugs, causing it to become less effective or increasing your risk of developing lactic acidosis. These include prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. This list does not include all possible interactions. Inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking and those that you will stop or start using.
