What is MetFORMIN (Eqv-Fortamet)?
Metaformin is a drug that can be used in conjunction with diet and physical activity to control blood sugar levels in adults who have type 2 diabetes mellitus. The treatment of type 1 diabetes does not include MetFORMIN® (Eqv. Fortamet). Metformin, also known as Eqv-Fortamet, may be used in other ways not mentioned in the medication guide.
Side effects of MetFORMIN (Eqv-Fortamet)
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergy: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling in your lips, face, throat, or tongue
MetFORMIN can cause lactic acidosis. This condition is fatal. Seek emergency medical attention if there are any symptoms, even a mild one such as:
- Unusual muscle pain;
- Feeling cold
- Trouble breathing
- Feeling dizzy, fatigued, or weak?
- Stomach pain, vomiting;
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
Some of the most common side effects associated with metformin (eqv. Fortamet) include:
- Low blood sugar
- Nausea, upset stomach;
There may be other side effects.For medical advice about any side effects, always contact your physician first. You can report them by calling the FDA directly at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
MetFORMIN is not recommended for people with severe kidney problems, metabolic acidosis, or diabetic ketoacidosis. Consult your doctor to get treatment. Metformin 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 the veins.
Lactic acidosis is a potentially dangerous condition that occurs when lactic acids build up in the blood. If you experience unusual pain in your muscles, difficulty breathing, nausea, dizziness, or a feeling of coldness or fatigue, call your doctor.
Before you take this drug
Metformin should not be used if:
- Severe kidney disease
- Diabetic ketoacidosis, or metabolic acidosis
You may have to stop temporarily taking MetFORMIN (Eqv Fortamet) if you are going to undergo surgery or any type of x-ray or CT scan that uses a dye injected directly into your veins. Tell your healthcare providers that you will be taking this drug.
If you've ever:
- Kidney disease: Before taking this medication, you may have to get your kidney function checked.
- High ketone levels are found in the blood or urine.
- Congestive cardiac failure
- Liver Disease
- If you are also taking insulin or any other diabetes medication,
You can develop lactic acidosis. This is a buildup of dangerous lactic acids in the blood. You may have a higher risk if there are other conditions, such as a serious infection or chronic alcoholism. Consult a medical provider in order to assess your level of risk. If you're pregnant, or if you get pregnant in the future, follow your doctor’s advice about this medication. MetFORMIN, also known as Eqv-Fortamet, may cause ovulation to occur in premenopausal women and increase their risk of an unintentional pregnancy. Speak to your doctor regarding your risks.This medicine should not be used while breastfeeding. MetFORMIN, also known as Eqv-Fortamet, should never be administered to children younger than ten years of age. Certain forms of MetFORMIN are not recommended for children younger than 10 years.
How to take MetFORMIN (Eqv-Fortamet)?
Take time to carefully read and follow all instructions included with your medication, especially any modifications recommended by your physician. Even when dosage adjustments occur, take your dose precisely as prescribed.Metformin is taken with food, unless you are told otherwise by your doctor. Metformin is taken with a meal. Please follow your doctor's directions.Do not chew or crush a tablet. Swallow the entire tablet. Measuring liquid medication is important. Dosing devices are available, but not spoons. Before measuring a dosage, shake the orally suspended liquid. You can use the syringe that comes with your medicine or a dose-measuring device. Some tablets have a coating that does not melt or absorb into the body. Some of the shells can be found in your stool. It is not harmful and does not affect the effectiveness of your medicine. If you have hypoglycemia, then you may feel fatigued, hungry, and irritable. You might also be confused or anxious. If you want to treat hyperglycemia quickly, consume or drink sugary foods or drinks (such as fruit juice, candy, crackers, or raisins).If you suffer from severe hypoglycemia, your doctor might prescribe an injection kit. Make sure that your close family members or friends are familiar with how to administer this medication in case of an emergency. Stress, illness, surgeries, alcohol, and skipping meals can all affect blood sugar levels. Consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication or dose schedule. Metformin is part of an overall treatment plan that includes diet, exercise, and weight management, as well as blood glucose testing and other medical attention. You should follow your doctor’s advice. Keep away from heat, moisture, and light. You may be prescribed extra Vitamin B12 by your doctor if you are on MetFORMIN. Only take the prescribed amount of Vitamin B12.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are almost due for the next dose, skip the missed one. Never take more than one dose at a time.
What happens if I overdose?
Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. An overdose can cause severe hypoglycemia or lactic acidosis.
What should be avoided?
Alcohol lowers blood sugar and may increase your risk of lactic acidosis. Alcohol lowers your blood sugar levels and can increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis.
Interaction with other drug
Metformin can be affected by many drugs, causing it to become less effective and increasing your risk for lactic acidosis. These include prescription, over-the-counter, and natural products. This list does not include all interactions. Inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking and those that you will stop or start using.
