Guide To The Side Effects Of Metformin

Anemia

Some patients who take metformin may find that it decreases vitamin B12 in their body. Unfortunately, this can result in anemia as a side effect. Thankfully, anemia from metformin is rare. However, not getting enough calcium or vitamin B12 through diet can increase this risk significantly. Symptoms of anemia include feeling lightheaded, dizziness, as well as frequent fatigue. While patients can relieve this side effect by stopping metformin, they should not do so unless their doctor has recommended it. In many cases, doctors will recommend that patients try taking vitamin B12 supplements first. This can help relieve anemia as a side effect fairly often.

Fever And Chills

In rare cases, patients will experience a fever and chills as side effects of metformin. A fever refers to a body temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Patients have a high fever when their temperature is at least 103.1 degrees Fahrenheit. Chills, on the other hand, refer to an individual feeling extremely cold even when their body temperature dictates otherwise. Patients with chills often shiver and deal with clammy skin at the same time. Patients need to talk to their doctor immediately if they deal with either a fever or chills on metformin. This is particularly vital for chills, which can be a warning sign of lactic acidosis, another rare and severe side effect of this medication.