Metformin Flashcards
1
Q
Does Metformin cause hypoglycaemia and weight gain?
A
No.
Sulphonylureas (Gliclozide) cause does.
2
Q
What other two conditions is Metformin used in apart from T2DM?
A
- PCOS
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
3
Q
What is the mechanism of action of Metformin?
A
- Increases insulin sensitivity
- Decreases hepatic gluconeogenesis
- Reduces gastrointestinal absorption of carbohydrates.
4
Q
What are some adverse effects of Metformin?
A
- GI upset iscommon - about 20% of patients.
- Reduced B12 absorption.
- Lactic acidosis with severe liver or renal disease (rare but common exam question.)
5
Q
What are some contraindications for using Metformin?
A
-
CKD
- If creatinine >130umol/l or eGFR <45ml/min it should be reviewed.
- Stop if >150 umol/l or eGFR <30ml/min.
- Lactic acidosis can occur when there are periods of tissue hypoxia. (e.g. MI, sepsis, AKI, severe dehydration)
- Iodine-containing x-ray contrast media - stop on the day of the procedure and 48 hours afterwards.
- Alcohol abuse - a relative contraindication.