Metformin HCL Tablets

Metformin is a biguanide antihyperglycemic that may be used to treat non-insulin-dependent diabetes (NIDDM) in cats and equine metabolic syndrome in horses. This product is a standard oral tablet formulation (not extended-release).

*Please note: This is a generic medication. Product packaging and appearance, including size, color, and shape, may differ from the description or images provided and are subject to manufacturer availability.

Horses

Metformin hydrochloride

Glucophage

Biguanide antihyperglycemic

Metformin hydrochloride tablets are (artificial) blackberry flavored.

Metformin tablets may be available in multiple strengths and/or sizes. Please ensure the selected product and package size are appropriate for your pet, as recommended by your veterinarian.

For current availability, please refer to the product selection above.

Metformin Tablets should be given orally as directed by your veterinarian. Please consult your veterinarian before making any changes or discontinuing the prescribed dosing schedule.

This medication can be given with or without food. If your pet vomits or appears unwell after receiving a dose on an empty stomach, give future doses with food or a small treat. If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian.

Administer the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

Store in a cool, dry place at a controlled room temperature (68 to 77°F, brief excursions permitted between 59 and 86°F). Keep in a tight, light-resistant container and out of the reach of children and pets. Store away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

When used as a single antidiabetic agent, metformin does not usually cause hypoglycemia.

Possible side effects include (but may not be limited to) lowered energy level/lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet has any signs of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious condition that can occur in humans taking metformin. Signs of lactic acidosis may include muscle pain, respiratory distress, tiredness, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Notify your veterinarian if your pet experiences any of the effects described above, or if you notice any other side effects that are persistent or troublesome.

If you notice anything unusual, please consult your veterinarian.

Do NOT use this medication in animals with severe kidney impairment/disease or metabolic acidosis. This medication should be discontinued temporarily if use of an iodinated contrast agent is required.

Use with caution in geriatric animals and those with preexisting kidney or liver impairment.

Safe use of this medication has not been established and should be used with caution in breeding, pregnant, or lactating animals. Discuss the risks of using this medication with your veterinarian if your pet is in one of these groups.

Do not administer to animals with a known history or suspected allergy/hypersensitivity to this medication or any of its ingredients. Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Be sure to inform Vetsource and your veterinarian if your pet has any known drug sensitivities or allergies.

If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, discontinue therapy and call your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency veterinary attention. Symptoms may include (but are not limited to): swollen lips, tongue, face, or airways; difficulty breathing; agitation; profuse salivation; and widespread hives or itching.

The following drugs* may have potential interactions with this medication: ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril, benazepril), concurrent antidiabetic agents (including insulins), ARBs (e.g., telmisartan), aspirin, beta-2 agonists (e.g., albuterol), beta blockers (e.g., atenolol, sotalol), calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine, diltiazem), clonidine, corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone, prednisone), cyclosporine, digoxin, diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide), fluoroquinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin), MAOIs (e.g., amitraz, selegiline), phenothiazines (e.g., acepromazine), phenylpropanolamine (Proin), SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), and zonisamide.

*NOTE: this may not be a comprehensive list. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

Please ensure your veterinarian is aware of all medications and supplements that your pet is currently receiving. Your veterinarian may prescribe multiple medications, even if a potential drug interaction may occur. In these instances, your veterinarian may adjust the dosages or monitor your pet more closely.

If you are concerned that your pet has experienced an adverse reaction to this medication, please contact Vetsource Pet Owner Care at 877-738-4443.

If you have any reason to suspect an overdose, call your doctor/veterinarian or the appropriate poison control resource immediately.

For humans:

The national toll-free Poison Help line, 1-800-222-1222, will connect you to your local poison center in case of emergency. This service is available nationwide and in most U.S. territories.

For animals:

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 888-426-4435.

Pet Poison Helpline® also provides a 24/7 animal poison control service at 855-764-7661.

All content, including the images and product description above, is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary consultation, diagnosis, or treatment.

Consult your veterinarian for complete information about this product and how it fits into your pet's individual treatment plan.