Metformin
Metformin is the first-line medication for type 2 diabetes. It helps lower blood sugar levels and is often used in combination with diet and exercise.
Dosage by Body Weight
Metformin is not routinely dosed by infant body weight in WHO infant treatment tables. Pediatric or adolescent use should follow diagnosis-specific, age-appropriate prescribing guidance and clinician monitoring.
- Body Weight
- Infants and young children
- Dose
- Not routinely recommended
- Frequency
- Specialist-directed only
- Tracking Notes
- Requires diagnosis-specific prescribing and monitoring of renal function and tolerance.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infants and young children | Not routinely recommended | Specialist-directed only | Requires diagnosis-specific prescribing and monitoring of renal function and tolerance. |
Formulation
Purpose
Type 2 diabetes management. Helps control blood sugar levels by decreasing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity.
Generic Name
Metformin HydrochlorideBranded Drug Names
Metformin is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
CAUTIONAlcohol can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and may destabilize blood sugar while taking metformin. Avoid heavy alcohol use.
Pregnancy
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDMetformin may be used during pregnancy for diabetes or selected conditions when prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider.
Breast Feeding
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDMetformin passes into breast milk in small amounts and is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding when prescribed.
Driving
SAFEMetformin alone usually does not impair driving, but low blood sugar can occur if combined with other diabetes medicines. Avoid driving if symptomatic.
Liver
CAUTIONSignificant liver disease may increase the risk of lactic acidosis with metformin. Use only after medical evaluation and monitoring.
Kidney
CAUTIONMetformin requires kidney function assessment and may be unsafe in moderate to severe kidney impairment. Follow prescribed dosing and monitoring.