Metformin hydrochloride (Glumetza®)
For more on this Drug Safety Labeling Change, click here.
For full prescribing information for Glumetza®, click here.
Updated Boxed Warning
Lactic Acidosis
Postmarketing cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis have resulted in death, hypothermia, hypotension, and resistant bradyarrhythmias. The onset of metformin-associated lactic acidosis is often subtle, accompanied only by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, myalgias, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal pain. Metformin-associated lactic acidosis was characterized by elevated blood lactate levels (> 5 mmol/L), anion gap acidosis (without evidence of ketonuria or ketonemia), an increased lactate/pyruvate ratio, and metformin plasma levels generally > 5 µg/mL.
Risk factors for metformin-associated lactic acidosis include renal impairment, concomitant use of certain drugs (eg, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors such as topiramate), age 65 years old or greater, having a radiological study with contrast, surgery and other procedures, hypoxic states (eg, acute congestive heart failure), excessive alcohol intake, and hepatic impairment.
Steps to reduce the risk of and manage metformin-associated lactic acidosis in these high-risk groups are provided in the full prescribing information.
If metformin-associated lactic acidosis is suspected, immediately discontinue GLUMETZA and institute general supportive measures in a hospital setting. Prompt hemodialysis is recommended.
Public Information from the FDA and Medscape
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Cite this: FDA Safety Labeling Changes: April-June 2017 - Medscape - Aug 31, 2017.
