METFORMIN
(Glucophage)Standard Prescription
metformin__mg PO__(frequency) (__mg/24hr)
Dosages
Children 10-16 yrs:
Initial: 500 mg/dose PO daily; increase weekly by 250-500 mg/day in divided doses up to a maximum of 2000 mg/day
Initial: 500 mg/dose PO daily; increase weekly by 250-500 mg/day in divided doses up to a maximum of 2000 mg/day
Children >16 yrs and adults:
Initial: 500 mg/dose PO daily; increase weekly by 500 mg/day in divided doses up to a maximum of 2550 mg/day
Initial: 500 mg/dose PO daily; increase weekly by 500 mg/day in divided doses up to a maximum of 2550 mg/day
Mechanism of Action
Biguanide hypoglycemic
Forms Supplied
Tablet: 500 mg, 850 mg
Extended-release formulations (non-formulary): 500 mg, 1000 mg
Comments
Lactic acidosis is a rare but potentially severe consequence of therapy with metformin; do not give metformin in clinical conditions that predispose to the development of lactic acidosis (e.g. hypoxemia, dehydration, hypoperfusion, sepsis).
Risk of lactic acidosis increases with worsening renal function.
Avoid use in patients with hepatic impairment.
Discontinue therapy when NPO for surgery (resume only after normal intake resumes and normal renal function is verified).
Discontinue therapy for 48 hrs in patients having radiologic scans involving IV iodinated contrast.
Risk of lactic acidosis increases with worsening renal function.
Avoid use in patients with hepatic impairment.
Discontinue therapy when NPO for surgery (resume only after normal intake resumes and normal renal function is verified).
Discontinue therapy for 48 hrs in patients having radiologic scans involving IV iodinated contrast.
References
32, 44, 215, 216
Last Edited
2022-04-08 20:03:26