Publication Date: 12/26/2005
Remember that the information presented here is not intended to replace the care of your own doctor. Before making any changes in the management of your own illness, you should consult your physician or other qualified medical professionals.
Question
My mother, who has type 2 diabetes, was put on metformin. After having some side effects (metallic taste, cold, nausea, etc.), she was taken off the medication. She has been in the hospital having tests and a liver biopsy. It appears she now has developed liver dysfunction. She has elevated iron levels, sickness, and extreme jaundice. She never had liver problems or any illness up until this point. Her doctors have not come up with a solution to her sickness. All her tests basically have not pointed to anything they can treat. She has now been sent elsewhere for a consultation.Do you have any information about this drug affecting the liver? Any information would be helpful.
Answer
The label [PDF file] for Glucophage says:This relates to a complication called lactic acidosis:Do not take GLUCOPHAGE or GLUCOPHAGE XR if you… have liver problems.
There is no evidence that GLUCOPHAGE or GLUCOPHAGE XR causes harm to the liver.It is also important for your liver to be working normally when you take GLUCOPHAGE or GLUCOPHAGE XR. Your liver helps remove lactic acid from your blood. Make sure you tell your doctor before you use GLUCOPHAGE or GLUCOPHAGE XR if you have kidney or liver problems.
