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.

For related options on EasyRxDrug, readers can browse the online pharmacy product catalog. For additional general safety context, review NIDDK diabetes information. This information is educational only and does not replace advice from a licensed clinician or pharmacist.