When do you take metformin?

Patients take metformin with morning and evening meals to prevent side effects such as stomach or bowel upset, according to Mayo Clinic. Take the extended-release tablet with the evening meal. Doctors prescribe metformin to control blood sugar in type-2 diabetics.

Effective blood sugar control requires taking medication as prescribed and weight control through proper diet and exercise, according to Drugs.com. When taking metformin it is essential to monitor blood sugar regularly. Stress, travel and illness all affect blood sugar levels. If the initial dosage does not provide adequate control of blood glucose, a doctor sometimes increases the dosage or prescribes an additional medication.