Lactic Acidosis is one of the most serious potential adverse conditions of taking Metformin. Its a rare occurrence, but can lead to conditions that are life-threatening.

What is Lactic Acidosis?

Lactic Acidosis is a technical term referring to the condition of low blood PH level with high levels of lactic acid. Lactate (or Lactic Acid) is a normal chemical compound that we all produce as a result of physical activity and our regular metabolic functions. Our bodies usually regulate the level of lactic acid through kidney and liver function.

A problem arises when this function is hindered and lactic acid builds up.

Metformin is a biguanide, which is a class of blood sugar lowering drugs originating from the French Lilac flower. All biguanides have a connection with developing Lactic Acidosis, since they hinder the liver's ability to create glucose from other molecules such as Lactic Acid.

Metformin is one of the most widely used biguanides today in the treatment of diabetes. Another biguanide, Phenformin, was also used to lower blood sugar, but is no longer available due to increased risk of developing Lactic Acidosis.

However, there is only a slight risk in developing Lactic Acidosis through Metformin. Even when the lactic acid is unable to be converted by the liver, the body usually has sufficient ability to deal with a build up through other means of waste removal, such as the kidneys.

Most of the time the connection between Metformin and Lactic Acidosis is only significant if a patient has a pre-disposition for contracting Lactic Acidosis in the first place. Your doctor should make sure you aren't in the this category.

People with a higher risk of developing Lactic Acidosis

The main category of people who should be concerned are those who have preexisting kidney problems. Kidney problems combined with reduced liver function can cause the dangerous build-up of lactic acid.

In addition to inhibiting liver function, it's been observed that Metformin may actually increase the rate in lactate production, but this is still being researched. Its believed that the main concern is whether the liver and kidneys function properly.

Who else should take caution with Metformin?

Anyone with conditions that are related to increased lactic acid should consider not taking Metformin. Examples of these conditions are respiratory and heart diseases, alcoholism and kidney disease. Others include frequent dehydration or a having a history of major surgeries. These are just some the most common conditions. Discuss with your doctor about your lifestyle and make sure they know about previous health issues before taking Metformin.