What Are The Repercussions Of Accidental Overdose Of Metformin?

Posted on Fri, 13 Jan 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 13 Jan 2017 Answered on

Fri, 3 Feb 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I take Metformin 1000mg bid. about 30 minutes after my pm dose I accidentally took 2 more. I thought I was taking Gabapentin. What should I do? I'm a retired RN

Answered by Dr. Dr. Abhay A Mali (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Consult your treating doctor.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for your question.
Noted your concern.

Watch for symptoms like abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, breathing difficulty.
If these symptoms develop consult ER immediately.
These are the symptoms of Lactic acidosis. Which is a serious complication of Metaformin overdose especially in patients with kidney problem.
But possibility of Lactic acidosis is extremely rare.

If there are no symptoms skip next dose of medicine and consult your treating doctor.

Hope this helps you.

Regards,
Dr Abhay Mali.
Diabetologist.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D