Metformin can affect other diabetes medicine.
When taking Metformin, it is important to disclose what medication you are already taking.
This includes medicine bought without prescription, and also includes herbal medicine
Furthermore, whilst taking Metformin, people with diabetes should consult with their healthcare professional before taking another diabetes medication.
Is Metformin suitable to take with other diabetes medicines?
Metformin is often prescribed to be taken alongside other diabetes medicine.
This may include medication like sulphonylureas and insulin
When people with diabetes take Metformin alongside other diabetes medication they should be monitored closely by their doctor.
Can some drugs affect blood glucose levels even if I’m taking medication?
Some drugs will enhance the blood glucose lowering affect of Metformin.
However, others will cause blood sugar levels to rise.
Before starting treatment with any diabetes medication consult your doctor or healthcare professional.
The following drugs may require you to adjust your dose of Metformin to keep blood sugar levels stable:
- Beta-2-agonists, such as salbutamol
- Corticosteroids, such as prednisolone
- Diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, eg bendroflumethiazide
- Lithium
- Oestrogens and progesterones, such as those contained in oral contraceptives
- Octreotide and lanreotide
Other drugs that should be closely monitored or avoided in conjunction with Metformin include ACE inhibitors, MAOI antidepressants, and Cimetidine.
When starting any new drug, whether for diabetes or otherwise, always check with your doctor.
