Rationale: Lactic Acidosis

Lactic acidosis is a serious metabolic condition in which the level of lactic acid in the body becomes abnormally high, causing the blood pH to decrease (become acidic).

Under normal circumstances, lactic acid is produced in small amounts and metabolized by the liver. However, when its production increases or its breakdown decreases, lactic acidosis can develop.

Biguanides (such as Metformin) are a class of medications used in the treatment of Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Biguanides reduce hepatic gluconeogenesis in the body. This results in decreased lactic acid clearance, especially when the patient has renal failure, liver disease, or hypoxia.

For this reason, Biguanides are considered most commonly associated with lactic acidosis.

Other medications such as Glibenclamide, Tolbutamide, and Chlorpropamide belong to the sulfonylurea group of drugs.

These medications primarily work by increasing insulin secretion and generally do not cause lactic acidosis.

✅ Exam Point:
Biguanides (especially Metformin) ➤ Can cause lactic acidosis.
This topic is frequently asked in pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, and diabetes management.

📌 Disclaimer: This information is for nursing exam preparation and educational purposes only. Always follow standard textbooks and clinical guidelines for actual patient treatment.

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