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Sick-day metformin — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateEndocrine TherapeuticsSick-day metforminGPhC CRA

A patient taking metformin has vomiting and diarrhoea with poor oral intake. They ask whether to keep taking their tablets. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: B — Advise temporary withholding and medical advice if symptoms persist or dehydration develops

Metformin is commonly withheld during significant dehydration risk to reduce lactic acidosis risk. The best answer addresses the key safety, legal or pharmaceutical care issue in the vignette. The other options would either delay appropriate care, create a new risk, or fail to resolve the issue. This is consistent with the cited UK reference for safe pharmacy practice.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS