Question 42

Lactic acidosis is a common side effect of metformin.

Lactic acidosis can occur as a serious side effect of metformin, especially in patients with renal impairment or other conditions that increase the risk of lactate accumulation.

A) Hyperglycemia

Hyperglycemia is not a common side effect of metformin; in fact, metformin is used primarily to lower blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. It works by improving insulin sensitivity and decreasing hepatic glucose production, thus preventing hyperglycemia.

B) Lactic acidosis

Lactic acidosis is indeed a common and serious side effect associated with metformin use. It can occur when there is an accumulation of lactic acid in the bloodstream, particularly in patients with contraindications such as significant renal impairment or other predisposing factors.

C) Hypotension

Hypotension is not a recognized side effect of metformin. While some medications for diabetes can cause changes in blood pressure, metformin is generally neutral with respect to blood pressure levels and does not typically lead to hypotension.

D) Bradycardia

Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not a common side effect of metformin. The medication primarily affects glucose metabolism and does not have direct cardiovascular effects that would lead to bradycardia.

Conclusion

Lactic acidosis stands out as a significant and well-documented side effect of metformin, particularly under certain health conditions. Other options such as hyperglycemia, hypotension, and bradycardia do not apply as side effects of metformin, affirming that option B is the correct and most relevant answer.