Always inform your doctor about all medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies. Some medications significantly impact metformin’s effectiveness and safety, potentially requiring dosage adjustments or even necessitating alternative treatments.
Medications that may increase Metformin levels:
Certain drugs, like cimetidine (Tagamet), can inhibit metformin’s metabolism, leading to elevated blood levels and a higher risk of side effects, particularly lactic acidosis. Your doctor might lower your metformin dose if you’re taking cimetidine. Similarly, some diuretics can influence metformin levels, requiring careful monitoring.
Medications that may decrease Metformin levels:
Conversely, drugs inducing liver enzymes, such as rifampin or certain anticonvulsants, can accelerate metformin’s breakdown, reducing its effectiveness. Your doctor may need to increase your metformin dose if you begin taking these medications. This applies to interactions with many medications, thus open communication with your physician is paramount.
Medications Increasing Risk of Lactic Acidosis:
Several drugs increase the risk of lactic acidosis, a serious complication associated with metformin. These include iodinated contrast agents used in medical imaging and some medications affecting kidney function. Your doctor may temporarily stop your metformin treatment before and after procedures requiring these agents or adjust the dose based on your kidney function. Always openly discuss any upcoming procedures with your doctor.
