Metformin is an oral medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called biguanides. It works by improving how the body uses insulin, lowering glucose production in the liver, and decreasing glucose absorption from the intestines. While its main use is for blood sugar control, it is sometimes used off-label for other conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and has been investigated for potential benefits in longevity and weight management due to its metabolic effects. Metformin is a prescription medication and its use should always be directed by a licensed healthcare professional. (NIH ODS)
Deep dive
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Known interactions
Compound-pair rule
Caution
Both lower blood sugar, so combining may lower it more than expected.
Monitor blood sugar and discuss with your provider.
Compound-pair rule
Note
Alpha-lipoic acid can affect blood sugar, adding to diabetes medication effects.
Monitor and discuss with your provider.
Category rule: supplement × medication
Note
Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist.
Category rule: vitamin × medication
Note
Certain vitamins interact with specific medications (e.g., vitamin K with blood thinners).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed source; confirm with your provider.
Compound-pair rule
Note
Long-term metformin use is associated with reduced B12 absorption and lower serum B12.
Monitor B12 annually; supplement 500–1000 mcg/day if low.
Compound-pair rule
Note
MK-677 can transiently increase fasting glucose; metformin may offset but monitor.
Monitor fasting glucose and HbA1c when combining.
Compound-pair rule
Note
Both lower blood glucose; additive hypoglycemia risk possible.
Monitor glucose; reduce metformin dose if hypoglycemia occurs.
Compound-pair rule
Note
Both lower blood glucose.
Monitor glucose closely when combined.
Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS)", "MedlinePlus", "PubChem", "Mayo Clinic", "U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) label", "European Medicines Agency (EMA) Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)", "Cochrane Library", "DrugBank"]
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the medication category or studied for the same goals.