Can I drink red wine while taking metformin?

Metformin is commonly available in tablet form. Generally, it is not recommended to drink red wine after taking metformin. The detailed reasons are as follows:

Metformin is a commonly used antidiabetic medication that primarily works by inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis and reducing intestinal absorption of glucose, thereby lowering blood glucose levels. Red wine contains a certain amount of alcohol, which can affect liver metabolism. Since metformin may also impact liver function, taking both together could increase the burden on the liver. Additionally, alcohol might reduce the effectiveness of metformin, thereby interfering with blood glucose control in diabetic patients. Drinking alcohol while taking metformin may also increase the risk of hypoglycemia, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and palpitations.

To ensure drug efficacy and patient safety, it is advised to avoid alcohol consumption—including red wine—while taking metformin. If patients have any questions or experience discomfort during treatment, they should seek medical advice promptly.