Metformin Hydrochloride
Metformin Hydrochloride is an oral medication primarily used to manage Type 2 diabetes mellitus by helping to control blood sugar levels. It is typically prescribed when diet and exercise alone are not sufficient to achieve glycemic control and is often used as a first-line treatment option. This medication may also be used for other conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in certain cases.
Metformin is a first-line oral medication for Type 2 diabetes that lowers blood sugar by reducing liver glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 235743
- Generic
- Metformin Hydrochloride
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- Kazano, Jentadueto, Kombiglyze, Janumet, Glucophage, Invokamet, Xigduo, Synjardy, Segluromet, Trijardy
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly in patients who are overweight or obese; sometimes used off-label for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and insulin resistance.
Metformin works primarily by decreasing glucose production in the liver, reducing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin.
Should not be used in patients with severe kidney impairment due to risk of lactic acidosis; common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea; regular monitoring of kidney function is recommended during treatment; always take as prescribed with meals to minimize GI effects.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 28, 2026. · Read our editorial policy