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Metformin sick day advice — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateEndocrine TherapeuticsMetformin sick day adviceGPhC CRA

A 54-year-old man with type 2 diabetes takes metformin 1g twice daily. He asks what to do because he has vomiting and diarrhoea and has been unable to keep fluids down since yesterday. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Stop metformin temporarily and seek medical advice if dehydration persists

During acute illness with dehydration risk, metformin may need temporary withholding to reduce the risk of lactic acidosis and acute kidney injury complications. The patient should maintain fluids and seek medical advice if symptoms persist, worsen or there are features of dehydration. Restarting should be guided by recovery and clinical advice.

Reference: https://www.pharmacyregulation.org/students-and-trainees/pharmacist-education-and-training/registration-assessment