metformin can lower vitamin B12 levels

April 2002

Many physicians and pharmacists don't realize that metformin can lower vitamin B12 levels.

About 10% of patients on metformin develop low vitamin B12 levels...probably due to reduced B12 absorption.

The concern is that prolonged use of metformin could lead to a vitamin B12 deficiency that could be easily missed.

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Table of Contents

allow pharmacists to provide emergency contraceptive pills
Diabetes Starlix (nateglinide), a new oral tablet for type 2 diabetes
Diabetes metformin can lower vitamin B12 levels
Diabetes confused about the "sugar-free" candies marketed to patients with diabetes
Men's Health Xatral (ZAY-trall, alfuzosin), a new once-daily drug for benign prostatic hyperplasia
Women's Health new vaginal estrogen tablet called Vagifem
Women's Health latest thinking on treating osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
Infectious Diseases Lymerix is off the market
Cardiology New Canadian hypertension guidelines
Cardiology More patients will be taking Plavix (clopidogrel)
Multiple Sclerosis the different interferons for MS
Obesity & Weight Loss new concerns about the safety of Meridia (sibutramine)
Obesity & Weight Loss natural weight loss products
"nocebo effect"
Alzheimer Disease link between homocysteine levels and dementia