What Is Metformin?

Potential Side Effects

While metformin causes fewer potential side effects than other diabetes medicines, patients have frequently experienced stomach issues such as gas, abdominal cramps, and nausea during metformin treatment. Other common side effects include upset stomach, diarrhea, sleepiness, decreased appetite, and back pain. Some individuals have reported painful urination and a general feeling of discomfort while taking this medicine, and it is common to develop a cough or hoarseness during treatment. Although less common, patients could notice blurry vision, headaches, and dizziness with metformin use. Anxiety, depression, nightmares, chest tightness, and facial redness have occurred as well. This medication can cause a metallic taste in the mouth, and some patients have experienced slurred speech, shakiness, changes in their nails, heartburn, and constipation.

Metformin is also associated with a rare side effect known as lactic acidosis. This potentially life-threatening condition often produces a skin rash and chest pain. Patients with these symptoms should be taken to the emergency room. It is important to let the prescribing physician know about any side effects that develop, especially if they are severe or persistent. Patients should also let their doctor know if side effects begin after they have already been taking metformin for a few weeks. It may be possible to reduce the dose so side effects are more tolerable.

Precautions To Remember

Before metformin is prescribed, patients should inform their doctor about any history of kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, or diabetic ketoacidosis. It is also important to mention any history of stroke. Patients will have their kidney function tested before starting metformin. Individuals who drink alcohol regularly should let their doctor know since alcohol consumption and binge drinking during metformin treatment could increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis and cause changes in blood glucose readings. Patients who develop infections, severe diarrhea, vomiting, or fever during treatment with metformin should ask their doctor if they need to discontinue metformin for a short time.

If an x-ray procedure with contrast dye is necessary, patients may be advised to stop taking metformin for a few days before the procedure. Patients having surgery or dental procedures may need to adjust their dosing schedule as well. Metformin should be stored at room temperature, and it needs to be kept away from heat, light, and moisture. The liquid form of the drug needs to be dispensed with the provided dosing syringe or cup, and the extended-release tablet must be swallowed whole. Patients are encouraged to follow a healthy diet while taking metformin, and they should let their doctor know about any changes in their food intake or hydration levels.