Metformin belongs to biguanide group of oral hypoglycemic drugs which is used in combina- tion with other oral hypoglycemic agents in patients suffering from type II diabetes melitus. It is used with caution in patients with renal impairment and liver dysfunction as it is excreted through renal and hepatic routes. Metformin toxicity may be intentional or accidental and although the actual toxic mechanism remains unclear, it is usually associated with severe lactic acidosis. This case report is about a young female who intentionally ingested 30g of metformin, and focuses on presentation, emergency resuscitative measures, investigations, and definite management plan.
This case was reported to show that the Metformin toxicity is usually not reported and that if we institute early dialysis and reverse the high anion gap acidosis, the chances of survival can significantly improve.
Key words: Metformin toxicity, lactic acidosis, hemodialysis
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