metformin

hullo ppl.

just started this 'wonder drug' and i feel like yuck. stomach cramps and feeling sick. how long will this last. please help

Susie,

I don't think Warren could have put it any more to the point. I too am one of the lucky ones that have not had any bad reactions to Metformin so I can't really speak from experience on how to handle it when there are side effects.

I might add that you should keep notes on when you take the meds and what side effects you have and when they occured if not only so you can speak with some authority to your doctor about this problem. The more you know about the details gives you more credibility - I think so anyway. Just my opinion on how to work with the medical profession. Your time with them is so short and you have to get your point across in a effective manner. Their time is limited, as is you time with them. I don't know how many times I have ask a question that was important to me only to get a blank stare in return. I don't believe they always(understatement really) think the patient needs to know all the information they know about your health.

Im also on Met and I find if you take it WITH food you wont have side effects. I havent had any since taking it at all.
It acually gives me some energy.

Jaclyn

My reaction to Metformin never went away. I had cramps, diarrhea, a rash on my face, and within 15-30 minutes foot and toe pain. My doctor changed me to Fortamet which is metformin in a time-release formula. It helped all of these because I didn't get a huge dose at one time just gradually over time. The toe pain and indigestion stopped, but occasionally I still have a face rash. However, that small reaction is okay enough because it can still get my numbers down. My diabetic counselor said I should try Glucophage XR when I get a rash the next time. She said her patients had much better results with the original medications instead of the generics. It is her opinion that the reactions come from the different kind of binders that hold the medicine and allow it to release at differet times into our systems. Metformin, Fortamet, Glucophage, and Glucophage XR all have similar but different binders. Since I am also sensitive to latex, I believe what she is saying. So I will stick with Fortamet (time-released metformin) until the next rash and then ask my doctor to try Glucophage XR. Same stuff, different binders, maybe enough of a "tweak" that I can live happily ever after with the meds.

I was diagnosed with Type 2 in October 2005. The medication, diet and exercise have so far been enough to affect my numbers. I know it is overwhelming at first, but these people on this forum are so supportive and helpful. Just listen to their advice. Good luck.