How does metformin interact with other medications or foods?

Medications that interact with metformin include digoxin, cimetidine, furosemide, nifedipine, amiloride, ranitidine, triamterene, morphine, quinidine, vancomycin, trimethoprim and procainamide. Taking metformin with other drugs that lower blood sugar can raise your risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). This includes probenid, beta-blockers, sulfa drugs, salicylates, monoamine oxidase inhibitors and certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Alcohol can also lower your blood sugar and increase the chances of developing lactic acidosis. Your risk of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) may be increased if you take metformin with other medications that increase blood sugar levels. Medications that raise your blood sugar are thyroid medications, steroids, isoniazid, diet pills, seizure medications, birth control pills, diuretics and phenothiazines. There may be other drugs, supplements or food that interact with metformin. People with diabetes should follow a diet and exercise plan. Because diabetes affects your blood sugar, diet is extremely important and you should discuss this with your doctor.