Metformin Hcl
Also sold as Metformin HCl
Medicine summary · from official FDA labels · Oct 19, 2026
What it’s used for
Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets USP are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults and children with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
How to take it
There is no fixed dosage regimen for the management of hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes with metformin hydrochloride or any other pharmacologic agent. Dosage of metformin hydrochloride must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses.
Important warnings
Lactic Acidosis: Lactic acidosis is a rare, but serious, metabolic complication that can occur due to metformin accumulation during treatment with Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets USP; when it occurs, it is fatal in approximately 50% of cases. Lactic acidosis may also occur in association with a number of pathophysiologic conditions, including diabetes mellitus, and whenever there is significant tissue hypoperfusion and hypoxemia.
Common side effects
In a US double-blind clinical study of Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets USP in patients with type 2 diabetes, a total of 141 patients received Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets USP therapy (up to 2550 mg per day) and 145 patients received placebo. Adverse reactions reported in greater than 5% of the Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets USP patients, and that were more common in Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets USP- than placebo-treated patients, are listed in Table 9 .
Interactions
DRUG INTERACTIONS (Clinical Evaluation of Drug Interactions Conducted with Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets USP) Glyburide —In a single-dose interaction study in type 2 diabetes patients, coadministration of metformin and glyburide did not result in any changes in either metformin pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics.
If pregnant or breastfeeding
Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category B Recent information strongly suggests that abnormal blood glucose levels during pregnancy are associated with a higher incidence of congenital abnormalities.
Forms & strengths
750 MG Oral Tablet · 1000 MG / 50 MG Oral Tablet · 500 MG / 50 MG Oral Tablet · 1000 MG Oral Tablet · 500 MG Oral Tablet · 850 MG Oral Tablet · 625 MG Oral Tablet · 100 MG/ML Oral Solution · 1000 MG / 2 MG Oral Tablet · 1000 MG / 4 MG Oral Tablet · 500 MG / 15 MG Oral Tablet · 500 MG / 1 MG Oral Tablet · 500 MG / 2 MG Oral Tablet · 500 MG / 4 MG Oral Tablet · 850 MG / 15 MG Oral Tablet
Questions to ask your doctor or pharmacist
- Is this the right medicine for my condition, and how long should I take it?
- What side effects should I watch for, and which need urgent attention?
- Does this interact with my other medicines, supplements, or alcohol?
- What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much?