Metformin-associated hepatotoxicity: a literature review

Metformin (dimethyl biguanide) is an oral antidiabetic agent and one of the most commonly prescribed medications in endocrinology. In addition to its primary use in treating type 2 diabetes, it has a broader range of indications and is generally considered to have a favorable safety profile. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. Although rare, cases of severe liver injury attributed to metformin have been reported. This paper provides a review of the existing literature on metformin-induced hepatotoxicity.