|
|
Metformin for Hirsutism
Drug Class
Metformin is an antihyperglycemic agent used to lower blood glucose levels in type II diabetes. It is also used to treat PCOS.
Trade Names
Glucophage, Glucophage XR, Glumetza, Fortamet, Riomet
Dosage and Administration
Oral: Tablets: Tablets: 500, 850, and 1000 mg. Tablets (extended release): 500, 750, and 1000 mg.
Solution: 500 mg/5 ml
Safety Information
Adverse Effects
Common side-effects include nausea, vomiting, gas, bloating, diarrhea and loss of appetite. The severity of these effects can be related to the dosage.
Rare but serious adverse events include lactic acidosis. Symptoms include weakness, trouble breathing, unusual muscle pain, abnormal heartbeat, stomach discomfort, feeling cold and light headedness or dizziness. People with reduced kidney or liver function, severe acute illnesses, dehydration or congestive heart failure are considered at risk for lactic acidosis.
FDA Pregnancy Indication: None.
Metformin has not been studied in pregnant women, however there is a general consensus among experts that insulin is the best treatment for pregnant women with diabetes. For nursing mothers, metformin is excreted in breast milk and can therefore be transferred to the infant, so it should not be used while nursing.
Major Drug Interactions
Cimetidine (Tagamet) decreases the elimination of metformin from the body, thereby increasing the amount of circulating metformin, and potentially increasing the frequency of side effects.
Back to: Hirsutism Treatment - Hormone Blockers
Treatment of Hirsutism:
|
