what are the side effectsof metformin?

Question

I am taking the medication metformin. what are the side effects

Answer 1

Yahoo! Health has this to say:
What are the possible side effects of metformin?

Stop taking metformin and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
A small number of people who have taken metformin have developed a serious condition called lactic acidosis that has been fatal in up to 50% of cases. Lactic acidosis has occurred most often in people whose kidneys were not working properly. Liver problems may also increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis. Stop taking metformin and call your doctor immediately if you experience a feeling of general discomfort or sickness; weakness; sore or aching muscles; trouble breathing, unusual drowsiness, dizziness or lightheadedness; unusual or unexplained stomach upset (after the initial stomach upset that may occur at the start of therapy with metformin); or the sudden development of a slow or irregular heartbeat. These may be signs of lactic acidosis.

Metformin does not usually cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Nevertheless, hypoglycemia may occur in the treatment of diabetes, as a result of skipped meals, excessive exercise, or alcohol consumption. Know the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar, which include hunger, headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, a fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a non-dietetic candy or glucose tablets to treat episodes of low blood sugar.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take metformin and talk to your doctor if you experience

nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea at the start of therapy;
abdominal bloating or increased gas production; or
decreased appetite or changes in taste (metallic taste in your mouth).
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

There is more information about metformin at the site. I hope this helps.

Answer 2

A lot of people get a yucky tummy with Metformin, but this should only last a few days and then slowly improve. It's better to start met slowly - like half a pill for a few days, then move on to two halves, and so on until you reach the required dose. Starting slow like this is much less likely to create any problems.

Some people notice weight loss with metformin - but this is generally a welcomed side effect!

Metformin is a generally respected 'magic pill' - it works for so many people and works well!

Answer 3

Some people on my diabetes e-mail list say that metformin makes them nauseous or gives them diarrhea. I don't have a problem with it unless I take it on an empty stomach, and then sometimes I get just a little nauseous.

If it's a problem, take it with meals. If it's still a problem, they have a time-release version that supposedly works much better. If it's -still- a problem, there are other drugs your doctor can try.

Answer 4

I have been taking five 500mg metformin pills daily for six years, they has no side affects that I aware of, but everyone is different.

Answer 5

I just took my first dose and its knocking me out and I only took half, a pill250mg. I think Im rare though. MY pharamicist says half the world is on this drug.

Answer 6

sometimes head aches, diareaha. it should all slow down after couple weeks but you will have symptoms every now and then. its from what you have though. the meds will be ok after abit and not cause trouble. you have to take it and it gest betters.

Answer 7

For me it was dirrahea but after a while my body adjusted. Unfortunately it wasn't a miracle drug for me and I now use insulin.