Fortamet (Metformin ER)

What is Fortamet?

Fortamet (metformin) is an oral anti-diabetic drug which belongs to the class of drugs known as biguanides.

What is Fortamet used for?

Fortamet is prescribed along with a proper diet and fitness regimen to keep blood sugar in control in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes (type 2 diabetes). Lowering high blood sugar, in turn, reduces risks of blindness, kidney damage, loss of limbs, nerve problems, heart attack, stroke or sexual function problems.

How does Fortamet work?

Fortamet (Metformin) is an antihyperglycemic agent. It helps to lower basal and postprandial plasma glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes and thereby improves glucose tolerance. It reduces glucose production in the liver and glucose absorption in the intestine. It also increases peripheral glucose uptake and utilization and thus increases insulin sensitivity.

How to use Fortamet

Fortamet should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. Taking the drug for longer time or in larger amount than prescribed may prove to be harmful. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Fortamet is usually taken orally once a day, with evening meal. The extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole and not opened, crushed or chewed.

The drug may be prescribed along with insulin or vitamin B12.

You should drink plenty of fluids while taking this drug.

Fortamet is part of a complete regimen which consists of diet control, weight control and exercise. Hence it is important to follow the entire program.

The drug should be taken regularly to get the maximum benefit.

Do not stop your dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve at all or becomes worse consult your doctor immediately.

Fortamet warnings and precautions

Fortamet is not administered to patients who are allergic to metformin or who suffer from a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. Patients who have congestive heart failure, liver or kidney disease, severe dehydration, alcohol dependence, or severe infection discuss the risks of the fatal condition called lactic acidosis with their doctors due to using Fortamet. 

While taking this drug your blood sugar needs to be checked regularly, especially if you have to travel, skip meals, exercise or undergo stress.

The drug may be stopped temporarily if you are severely ill, have an infection or are going to have a surgery or a medical procedure done (X-Ray or CT scan which needs a dye to be injected into veins). You should talk to your doctor regarding this.

The drug is not recommended for children younger than 10 years of age. The extended-release tablets of Fortamet are not recommended for children below 17 years of age.

Fortamet is not expected to be harmful to a fetus and it is not known whether it passes through breast milk and could cause harm to a nursing baby. Still, pregnant and lactating women are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of taking the drug with their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Fortamet dose?

If you have missed a Fortamet dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not take a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Fortamet overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Fortamet, seek medical attention right away.

Fortamet interactions

Drugs like diuretics, heart/blood pressure medication, thyroid medicine, asthma, cold and allergy medication, seizure medication, birth control pills, steroids, isoniazid, phenothiazines, niacin can increase your blood sugar levels and cause hyperglycemia when taken along with Fortamet. You should avoid taking these medicines along with Fortamet.

Some other drugs which may also interact with this medicine are: amiloride, furosemide, cimetidine, digoxin, nifedipine, vancomycin, quinidine, procainamide, trimethoprim, or morphine.

It is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before using Fortamet.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Fortamet side effects

Side effects from Fortamet include allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat, hives, redness of skin etc. as well as some serious symptoms such as shortness of breath, symptoms of flu, fever, chills, rapid weight gain.

In some people use of Fortamet can cause an often fatal condition known as lactic acidosis. The early symptoms of lactic acidosis are: troubled breathing, muscle weakness, numbness or coldness in hands and feet, dizziness, light-headedness, severe weakness, slow or uneven heart rate, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

Headache, weakness, stomach pain, mild nausea, diarrhea, gas, vomiting are some less serious side effects of Fortamet.