What Happens If You Take Metformin and You''re Not Diabetic?
Medically reviewed by Andre Stone | MD, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine on August 25th, 2026.
People without diabetes may still have side effects from metformin, and they should take it only when prescribed for an appropriate medical reason. Metformin is a prescription medication commonly used for type 2 diabetes, but clinicians may also prescribe it for some people without diabetes. When taken by itself, metformin usually does not cause low blood sugar, although the risk may increase when it is combined with certain other medicines or when a person is not eating normally. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and stomach upset, which affect up to 25% of users. Long-term metformin use can lower vitamin B12 levels in some people. Lactic acidosis is a very rare but serious complication, with greater risk in people who have certain conditions, such as severe kidney problems or an acute illness. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking any prescription medication, as they need to assess your individual health status and determine appropriate treatment.
Still have questions about this?
Ask your AI Doctor
Keep exploring
Related Questions
From the blog
More from Doctronic
Metformin Side Effects
Metformin stands as one of the most trusted medications for managing type 2 diabetes, helping millions of patients worldwide control their blood…
Metformin And Magnesium: Interactions to Know
Metformin stands as one of the most prescribed diabetes medications worldwide, helping millions manage their blood sugar levels effectively. However,…
How Does Metformin Work
Metformin stands as one of the most widely prescribed medications for type 2 diabetes, helping millions of people worldwide manage their blood sugar…