Contraindications of Metformin
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
- Metformin is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to potential risks to the fetus or infant.
- Severe Kidney Disease:
- Patients with severe kidney disease or reduced kidney function (e.g., eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²) should avoid Metformin due to the increased risk of lactic acidosis.
- Severe Liver Disease:
- Patients with severe liver disease should avoid Metformin due to potential toxicity and complications.
- Chronic Heart Failure:
- Patients with chronic heart failure requiring pharmacologic treatment should avoid Metformin due to the risk of lactic acidosis.
- Hypersensitivity to Metformin:
- Known allergy or hypersensitivity to Metformin or any of its components.
- Severe Dehydration or Shock:
- Patients experiencing severe dehydration, shock, or conditions that may lead to reduced renal function should avoid Metformin.
- Acute or Chronic Metabolic Acidosis:
- Patients with acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma.
- Radiologic Studies with Contrast:
- Discontinue Metformin before radiologic studies involving iodinated contrast materials due to the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy and lactic acidosis. It can be resumed 48 hours after the procedure, assuming renal function is normal.
Side Effects of Metformin
- Common side effects include digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, diarrhea, and a metallic taste in the mouth. Less common, but more serious side effects can include lactic acidosis, particularly in those with kidney issues.
Note: Promptly contact a Healthspan physician if any unexpected symptoms or side effects occur.