Can I take Aspirin and Metformin together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 25 Jan 2026
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Taking aspirin and metformin together may slightly increase the risk of your blood sugar levels dropping too low (hypoglycaemia). While this is generally safe for most people, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar.
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Why this happens
Aspirin can make the body more sensitive to insulin and may slightly increase the amount of insulin released. When combined with metformin, this can occasionally lead to a stronger blood-sugar-lowering effect than intended.
What you should do
Back to contentsYou can usually take these medicines together, but you should monitor your blood sugar levels more closely, especially when starting or changing the dose of aspirin. Learn to recognise signs of low blood sugar, such as feeling shaky, sweaty, hungry, or dizzy. If you notice these symptoms frequently, speak to your doctor.
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Important precautions
Back to contentsAsthma
Do not take aspirin if you have a history of asthma triggered by aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as it can cause a life-threatening asthma attack.
Severe kidney disease
You must not take metformin if your kidneys are not working properly. This can lead to a rare but life-threatening build-up of lactic acid in the blood (lactic acidosis).
Children under 16 years old
Never give aspirin to children under 16 unless specifically prescribed by a doctor. It can cause Reye’s syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal condition affecting the brain and liver.
Food and drink warnings
Back to contentsAlcohol
Drinking alcohol while taking aspirin can increase the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding. It is best to limit alcohol intake, especially if you take aspirin regularly.
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Using other medicines
Back to contentsTaking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.
Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.
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Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
25 Jan 2026 | Originally published
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