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My dog might have eaten my metformin. What symptoms should I watch for?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered

I can’t remember if I took a pill (metformin, 500mg) and although I checked everything to make sure it’s not on the floor or anywhere my dog might take it I’m still afraid he might eat it if I didn’t actually take it. What could be some signs that he took it?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 9th, 2019

Signs could include vomiting, lethargy, and/or hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia can be an emergency, and may present as shakiness, lethargy, listlessness, lack of coordination, confusion , lack of consciousness, seizures, and can even be fatal. I recommend you contact your vet immediately to have Charlie seen, and contact the pet poison helpline at the link below and let them know what happened. Give them Charlie's weight as well so they can help calculate if there may be a possible toxicity based on the amount of medication he ingested. https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
The most common sign is vomiting, which typically occurs from 15 minutes to eight hours after ingestion. You may also see diarrhea, lethargy, pale mucous membranes, and hindlimb tremors. If you see any of those signs, rush Charlie into a vet immediately.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on September 5th, 2019
This should not cause an issue other than possibly vomiting as you noted. If she is vomiting a large amount, she could need supportive care (anti-nausea medication, fluids), so should that occur, take her to your vet. Otherwise just keep an eye on her for the next 8-12 hours or so.
Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on April 9th, 2019
I was the one who answered your question, so I recommend this case! It can take up to 8 hours for signs to show, so I would continue to monitor Charlie over the next 4 hours. If he's fine after that, then there is no worries!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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