Actoplus Met and Cimetidine

In the database of official manuals used in the service creation an interaction registered by statistical results of studies was found, which can either lead to negative consequences for the patient health or strengthen a mutual positive effect. A doctor should be consulted to address the issue of joint drug administration.

Using metFORMIN together with cimetidine may increase the effects of metFORMIN. You should monitor your blood glucose and contact your doctor if you experience weakness, increasing sleepiness, slow heart rate, cold feeling, muscle pain, shortness of breath, stomach pain, feeling light-headed, and fainting. You may need a dose adjustment and you may need to check your blood sugar more often to safely use both medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

MONITOR: Cimetidine may significantly reduce the renal tubular secretion of metformin. The mechanism may involve cimetidine inhibition of the organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2), thereby increasing metformin plasma concentration. In one study, the area under the plasma concentration-time curve for metformin was increased by 50% and the plasma clearance was reduced by 27%. Increased metformin levels may increase the risk of lactic acidosis.

MANAGEMENT: Particularly slow and cautious titration of metformin dosage is recommended if these drugs must be used together. The maximal dose of metformin should also be reduced until further information about this interaction is available. Patients should be advised to monitor their blood glucose and to promptly notify their physician if they experience possible signs of lactic acidosis such as nausea, vomiting, malaise, myalgia, weakness, respiratory distress, slow or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, lightheadedness, or other unusual symptoms.

Actoplus Met

Generic Name: metformin / pioglitazone

Brand name: Actoplus Met, Actoplus Met XR

Synonyms: n.a.

What is Actoplus Met?

Cimetidine

Generic Name: cimetidine

Brand name: Tagamet HB, Tagamet

Synonyms: n.a.

What is Cimetidine?