Metformin Hydrochloride 500 mg is a commonly prescribed oral medication used primarily to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. It belongs to a class of drugs known as biguanides and helps control blood sugar levels.

Key Uses

• Type 2 Diabetes: Improves blood sugar control in people whose diabetes is not well-managed with diet and exercise alone.
• Sometimes used off-label for:
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
  • Prediabetes
  • Weight management in insulin-resistant individuals

How It Works

Metformin:

• Reduces glucose production in the liver
• Increases insulin sensitivity
• Improves glucose uptake by muscles
• Decreases sugar absorption from the intestines

Dosage

• Usually starts with 500 mg once or twice daily, taken with meals to reduce stomach upset.
• The dose may be increased slowly (weekly or biweekly) based on response and tolerance.
• Maximum dose: 2000–2550 mg/day, depending on formulation.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Bloating or gas
• Metallic taste in mouth
• Loss of appetite

These usually improve after a few days or weeks.

Serious (but rare) Side Effects

• Lactic Acidosis (a medical emergency): Symptoms include muscle pain, difficulty breathing, unusual tiredness, or feeling cold.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency (with long-term use)

Who Should Avoid Metformin

• People with severe kidney disease
• Those with liver problems
• People with severe infections or conditions causing hypoxia
• Avoid temporarily before and after contrast dye (CT scan) procedures

Tips

• Always take with food to minimize stomach upset.
• Stay hydrated to help kidney function.
• Routine monitoring of blood sugar, kidney function, and B12 levels is recommended.