Can You Take Metformin with Omeprazole?
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database
Metformin and omeprazole are safe to take together — millions of people with diabetes and reflux use both daily without issue.
Is it safe to take Metformin with Omeprazole?
There is no clinically significant interaction between metformin and omeprazole. Both are among the most prescribed drugs in the UK and are very commonly co-prescribed. One relevant note for long-term users: both drugs independently can reduce vitamin B12 absorption over years of use, so anyone on both long-term with fatigue, numbness or tingling should ask for a B12 blood test.
How do Metformin and Omeprazole interact?
Metformin is not CYP-metabolised (renally cleared via OCT transporters); omeprazole's CYP2C19 effects don't touch it. Minor in-vitro OCT interactions have no established clinical relevance. Additive long-term B12 malabsorption: metformin impairs calcium-dependent ileal B12-IF uptake; PPIs reduce acid-dependent B12 release from food.
Data sourced from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug label database: OpenFDA metformin and omeprazole labels — B12 monitoring notes.
Who should be careful?
Long-term users of both should be aware of vitamin B12 deficiency risk — particularly vegetarians/vegans, over-65s, and anyone with anaemia symptoms or neuropathy.
What if I've already taken Metformin and Omeprazole?
No action needed — this is a routine combination. Consider a periodic B12 check if you've been on both for years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take omeprazole with metformin?
Yes — no significant interaction. It's an extremely common combination.
Why should I think about vitamin B12?
Both drugs can reduce B12 absorption over long-term use. Symptoms of deficiency include fatigue, pins and needles, and memory problems — a simple blood test checks it.
Does omeprazole affect blood sugar?
Not meaningfully. Omeprazole does not interfere with metformin's glucose-lowering effect.
Can I take my metformin and omeprazole at the same time of day?
Yes. Metformin goes with meals; omeprazole works best 30-60 minutes before a meal. Taking them the same morning is fine.