Guide To The Side Effects Of Metformin

Metformin is a prescription medication that works by decreasing the amount of glucose the liver makes. It also reduces the amount absorbed from the patient's diet. Additionally, this medication promotes increased insulin sensitivity. Metformin is available as a liquid, immediate-release tablet, and extended-release tablet. Patients taking metformin in an immediate-release tablet or as a liquid do so once or twice daily at mealtimes. Individuals who take the extended-release form are typically advised to take it once per day with dinner. Doctors start patients on a low dose, gradually increasing it over one to two weeks. Patients are asked to monitor their blood glucose frequently during this period. Patients must continue taking metformin even if they feel well. Ultimately, they should not stop taking it without talking to their doctor first.

Metformin is a strong diabetes medication. It is a common option for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. As mentioned, patients must maintain blood sugar monitoring on this medication. This often means using blood sugar test strips. Many patients may still need an insulin pen to help manage their condition. Although metformin is an effective diabetes treatment, it has quite a few potential side effects. Patients must understand the common ones so they know what to watch for when they take this medication.

Nausea And Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are two very common side effects associated with metformin. They occur in an estimated twenty-five percent of patients taking this medication. Nausea is a feeling of unease in the stomach, and it may happen before vomiting. Some patients feel nausea more in the back of their throat or their chest. While uncomfortable, it is not painful. Patients may be able to reduce nausea by avoiding strong odors and getting fresh air. Keeping a food diary helps identify potential dietary triggers if patients have had nausea for an extended period. Eating small meals every few hours is often recommended for patients who feel nauseous. It is essential to avoid eating any food that has not been properly refrigerated or is spoiled. Most cases of nausea resolve on their own within twenty-four hours.

Vomiting is an involuntary, forceful release of stomach contents through the mouth or nose. It is the stomach's attempt to rid itself of an irritant. If vomiting occurs, patients should note how many episodes they have. They need to seek medical help immediately if the vomit contains blood or if it appears brown or black. Green vomit could indicate the presence of bile. Patients need to mention this to their doctor quickly. Eating bland foods, such as toast or crackers, helps relieve vomiting. Beverages that help include water, flat ginger ale, and certain fruit juices. The beverages also prevent dehydration. Some patients like to consume foods and drinks with ginger to reduce both nausea and vomiting. Individuals should contact their doctor if vomiting lasts more than twenty-four to forty-eight hours or if it prevents them from keeping down liquids.

Diarrhea Or Constipation

Patients may experience stool changes such as diarrhea or constipation while taking metformin. Diarrhea affects around fifty-three percent of patients on metformin. Constipation is not as common. Diarrhea occurs when the patient has loose, watery stools three or more times in twenty-four hours, and stomach cramps may be present. Consuming low-fiber foods and avoiding dairy products and high-fat foods helps reduce diarrhea. Most cases of diarrhea related to metformin use are self-limiting and resolve without treatment. However, patients may wish to use an over-the-counter medication such as loperamide or bismuth subsalicylate to treat diarrhea at home. Patients need to consult their doctor if diarrhea persists or if black stools occur. These may be signs of a more serious condition.

Constipation develops if patients have stools that are dry, hard, or difficult to pass. Most doctors define constipation as having fewer than three bowel movements per week. Patients with constipation often experience pain during bowel movements. They may have a constant sensation of fullness in their rectum. Doctors recommend that individuals increase their dietary fiber intake to treat constipation. It may be necessary to take over-the-counter laxatives. Severe constipation may require an enema. Surgery is necessary if untreated constipation leads to a bowel blockage. Patients who take metformin should check with their doctor about whether they need to take fiber supplements or other medicines to prevent constipation.