DISCLAIMER: iGuard is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. iGuard cannot and does not take into consideration every possible interaction or account for individual responses to medicine. Different individuals may respond to medication in different ways. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for any given patient. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have before making any changes to your treatment. The use of the iGuard site and its content is at your own risk. The iGuard site and the information contained in it is intended for users in the United States and information in other countries may be different.
Global Patient Feedback for Metformin ( Post a comment )
Question/Comment:
I have been on Glucophage for years. As with most people is causes nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach. Without eating an overload of carbs to compensate, that lead to more weight gain, I spent most of my days sick and wondered why I was taking it to be better if the medication made me feel worse. I found a glucophage made by Watson Labs that does not have the side effects the others do. Next time you get your script filled ask for a different manufacturer and see if it helps. I can take my medication with dairy products or even fruit and I no longer feel sick. No more diarrhea, or exhaustion. I even had my physician write out the script for the brand I wanted so the pharmacy has to dispense the meds that work for me. No questions asked.
35 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-01 14:30:54
Answer/Reply:
Thank you for the helpful insightful advice. Only those of us who take the medicine can really appreciate the side effects-not necessarily the prescribers or the drug companies. I think it is a wonderful idea to try to ask for another drug company (like Watson), and will give this a try, as I have noticed great differences between different GENERIC metformin from different pharmacies. Since I have no insurance currently, I rely on the low cost or medical assistance programs. I am not sure if they will go with the difference in manufacturers, but will try. I started a new prescription of glucophage (metformin) only in the last week and had to stop taking it because of the worst diarrhea and exhaustion I have had from any meds. Will look into changing this. We can take charge of our own medicine with help from people like I-Guard and really appreciate this service.
54 year old Female
Posted: 2009-06-06 12:28:06
Question/Comment:
Well I was on regular metformin a number of years ago and was forced to stop it because of the diaherra and severe upset stomach to the point where i could not unless i was near a rest room it was that quick and being a truck driver it was not always possible to be near a rest room. I finally got the docotr to put me on rezulin and that worked great, but of course the federal government had to stop that. I was recently put on metformin ER and it worked great for 2 months my sugar was coming down, still was not losing weight, and then about 2 weeks ago I started having the same problems as before. I tried to modify my intake after stopping it to get my body back under control, but that did not work. I am now off it completely because i can not deal with the problems. and no the doctor is not aware of it as i am now unemployed and cannot go see him. I also take byetta 10mcg twice a day, glyburide 2 pills twice a day and actos 45 once a day. so i do not know what to do.
48 year old Male
Posted: 2009-04-30 08:50:06
Answer/Reply:
Don't take Actos it definately causes weight gain
54 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-30 12:19:53
Answer/Reply:
I carry pepto with me -I wish the government hadn't taken away the kitty litter formula for keopectate-It seem to work much better-But yeah we all stay close tobathrooms -If you remove a lot of meat and stay on veggies like greens it seems better.
56 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-18 19:45:28
Answer/Reply:
My doctor said the bathroom urges were a result of the body dumping excess sugar- see my post on Gymnema
61 year old Male
Posted: 2009-05-21 14:30:31
Answer/Reply:
You are right, every since I started on Actos I gain weight, but the doctor said it would make me gain the weight.
59 year old female
5/19/09
60 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-19 08:33:53
Answer/Reply:
I also had a similar problem when the insurance company switched me from Gluciphage to Metformin. When I went back to Glucophage, the problem disappeared.
80 year old Male
Posted: 2009-05-15 17:19:43
Answer/Reply:
I am on MetforminER also. I have the same problem with it. After eating I had better be near a restroom because within 20 minutes I am heading there. If I cannot be near a restroom that quickly and I know ahead of time I will take 2 Imodium. That may not be the right thing to do but in those rare times when I cannot be near a restroom that works for me. I am on 2 MetforminER twice a day. When I was on 1 pill twice a day I never had that problem. Just wanted to let you know (47 year old male) that you are not alone.
59 year old female
60 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-20 07:58:05
Question/Comment:
Does Metfomin cause mucuos to hang in the back of your throat causing you to cough and try to bring it up? Since taking this medication I seem to have this problem, unless I have aquired some sort of allergy. I've lived here in Arizona for about a year and some people say you develop allergies (I've never had allergy problems).
43 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-26 10:34:57
Answer/Reply:
I was told from my doctor that allergies can happen at any time. It all depends on weather, where you live and what you take. Everyone is different, but with the pollution that is around I have found my allergies are only active 10 months of the year instead of twelve. The only relief I have is January and February. I have been on Metformin for many years, and I had allergies before then.
46 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-16 22:04:44
Answer/Reply:
I have the same problem. I wonder if this is caused from this medication. I am going to call my Doctor and find out and maybe see if there is something else she can put me on. I am in Wisconsin.
50 year old female
50 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-23 11:41:43
Question/Comment:
I've been on Metformin for about two months now and I've lost 15 mpounds. Did Metformin seem to make anyone lactose intolerant - I can't eat yogurt any more (it comes back up) and last night I had lasagne (wheat noodles, low fat skim mozzarella) and it came right back up.
43 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-26 10:13:49
Answer/Reply:
When taking Metformin, you must take it with food.Metformin has a tendancy to cause gastric problems.
67 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-16 15:39:17
Answer/Reply:
I not only could eat no milk or eggs (nor could my daughter on Metformin 1000 mg. a day, I got one of the dangeorus side effects to do with the muscles and had to stop altogether. My daughter and I both are now on insulin with good results and no side-effects.
61 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-17 16:05:06
Answer/Reply:
I have been on metformin for over two years, I too had dairy challenges, and diarrhea. I was introduced to symmetry products. Since taking Genesis and Ultra vitality for past 9 months, I am no longer on insulin and my meds have been reduced, and I am losing weight as well. Go to www.symmetrydirect.com/ggainor and visit this site, I too will be more than excited to tell you more about it. j54jackson@yahoo.com.
57 year old Female
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-19 10:43:40
Answer/Reply:
Hi, I've heard it takes awhile to adjust to taking metformin but im not sure how long that is. It might be a good idea to ask your doctor how long because you shouldn't have to feel sick all the time.
54 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-19 20:21:40
Answer/Reply:
I have been on Metformin for about 2 years . 1000mg 2 x a day. I had stomache issues for the first 2 weeks and Have been ok ever since. I stick with the same manufacturer.
55 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-26 14:18:08
Answer/Reply:
I take Metformin and I don't have those symptoms at all. I have been on it for many years now. It sounds like you may have Gerd might want to talk to your Dr about that.
57 yr old female
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-21 00:04:28
Answer/Reply:
Yes I always threw up while on Metformin HC 1000mg. I thought that is was the dosage, but no matter what dosage I took I had that problem,. along with occasional diarrhea. So I stopped taking the medication all together.
30 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-22 14:21:22
Answer/Reply:
Metformin does not make me, or my husband latose intolerant and we have been on this for several years, so it must be a "dormant" allergy that is coming up in your system, or you have some type of gastric problem, or you are allergic to the metformin, as it shouldn't cause this problem for you. I have had "dormant' allergy problems from other medications in the past but not this one. Apparently after having a cortisone shot a few years ago, something in my system shifted and now I am allergic to ALL nuts, and not just a few. Ask your doctor about this though. Good luck.
51 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-23 14:52:56
Answer/Reply:
I have been on Metformin for about 3 months and have not had that problem. Other than running to the bathroom in the beginning, it was an easy transition. Hope things improve for you!
47 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-24 22:53:17
Answer/Reply:
I've been on Metformin 500 mg twice daily for several months and then 1000 mg twice daily for the past 6 months or so and never had a problem with becoming lactose intolerant. what i am able to eat has not changed as far as tolerating the food - just the fact that i am diabetic and having to watch my glucose levels has changed and taking the Metformin has done wonders for keeping my levels where they should be better than anything else. I had been on Glucophage with no luck and been on Actos with no luck - Metformin has helped keep my diabetes under control
49 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-25 19:00:20
Answer/Reply:
Ibeen on metformin for a few years now,twice a day.Inever had any problems .Idon't think that metformin is your problem.I just turned 60 and no problem with metformin.I was told it is one of the best medicines .well.but do check with your doctor since there is different tipes of metformin.
61 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-26 09:56:35
Answer/Reply:
Ibeen on metformin for a few years now,twice a day.Inever had any problems .Idon't think that metformin is your problem.I just turned 60 and no problem with metformin.I was told it is one of the best medicines .well.but do check with your doctor since there is different tipes of metformin.i am female 60 years old
61 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-26 10:06:36
Question/Comment:
I was just recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetis (January 2009). I was started out on 1000 mg. metformin and 30 mg. actos. After one month my sugar level went from 495 to between 100 and 250. My ac1 (?) level was 12 to begin with, after a month it was 9. He increase my metformin to 1000 mg 3 times a day and actos to 45mg. I started having severe stomach pain. Could not get an answer from my doctor, so I went back to 1000 mg of metformin, pain decreased and I'm now just taking 500mg. of metformin. Sugar level always drop way under 100 by noon, never goes over 200. Stays between 50 and 150 all day. No one has told me what is a healthy level. I watch my carbs and sugar intake. Even if I eat a meal I shouldn't because of the carbs and sugar, my blood tests no more than 200 and within 2 hours is back down to 100 or lower. Don't know what is going on, or if I need to be on this medication. When I first found out my sugar level was so high, I was eating 1-2 bags of buttered popcorn every night and drinking LOTS of Pepsi. I've quit all that and watching what I eat and drink. Dr's. around here are not very reliable and I don't trust them. Someone have any thing to suggest? Don't have insurance so trying to go to another Dr. means I have to go out of town. I'm also on hydroclorithizide and atenlol and have read that I should be closely monitored if taking metformin along with these, but my Dr. doesn't want to see me again until June. What's up with that? Actually, my stomach hurts everyday, not as bad as when taking 3000 mg. of metformin, but I don't feel good. I function, but have no energy.
55 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-28 08:30:44
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Typically the HbA1C goal is less than 7%, the before meal glucose range should be between 90-130 mg/dl and the 2 hour after meal glucose should be less than 180 mg/dl. To learn more about diabetes, ask your doctor to recommend a diabetes education class or ask your pharmacist to review some of the things you have questions about. You can also find more information on the American Diabetes Association Website: http://www.diabetes.org/about-diabetes.jsp
If you are having side effects from a medication, you should always talk to your doctor before making adjustments to your medication. If you have stomach upset with metformin, taking it with food may help to lessen this side effect. Also, increasing your dose slowly over time can help you to get used to the medication and it's side effects. Since you have made some changes to your medications, you should try to follow up with your doctor and review your treatment plan as soon as possible.
Posted: 2009-04-02 22:14:34
Answer/Reply:
maybe this migth help  you, i was diagnosed with type 2 diabetis feb,2009 i also take
metformin 500mg twice a day. then i was taking 1000mg twice a day but it
was making me very sickso i went back to taking just 500mg twice a day. my sugar level 100 to 96 befor i eat and 1252hours after i eat. the diabetes of america is where i go. and they seem to know more than myoun dr. try the, www.DiabetesAmerica.com
42 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-28 16:35:23
Answer/Reply:
I also take metformin & atenlol, metformin 2x daily atenlol once daily. I also have pain in my stomach and no energy. I am 55 years old and have been on the above pills plus many more, and never seem to have a good day anymore, just like you my blood sugars, only spike after a meal and usually goes down after a couple of hours. I also use insuln in the eveing, (Lantus).
Would like to know if you are ever dizzy, I am having a cat scan of my head today, as I have been having dizzy spells & headache's. Let me hear from you or anyone on this.
56 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-01 11:15:16
Answer/Reply:
I have taken Metformin for about 7 years now. I have also lost about 100 pounds in the past two years (but still have about 50 or 60 to go). My blood sugar levels have come way down and now am having problems with my sugar levels dropping too low. Am going to the doctor as soon as I can get an appt. and see if I need to lower my metformin doseage (now is 1000 mg. twice a day) or what. Losing just 10 pounds can make a change in your sugar levels. My A1c also went from almost 8 to 6.2 since I have lost weight and am watching what I eat/how much of it. Every one is different so keep good notes of what you eat, how it makes you feel, your medication taking times, the amount of meds taken and such. After awhile, you may very well see some kind of pattern. Oh...and sugar levels should be between 80-110. It has come way down from where it was when I was first diagnosed. Keep asking questions of your doctor and if you doctor doesn't answer them, find a new doctor. Once diagnosed with diabetes, it is possible to may never need your meds again, but not probable. You need to have someone you feel confident in to help you get your questions answered. There is never a dumb question.
54 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-03 10:51:41
Answer/Reply:
Way to go! You inspire me to loose the weight and then the meds.
48 year old Female
Posted: 2009-09-01 06:38:30
Question/Comment:
What should your A1C level be? My last blood test was 7.2. Is this bad? I have been diabetic for 11 years.
56 years old, female
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-20 14:52:20
Answer/Reply:
Well,that's not TOO bad,but your a1c levels SHOULD be under 7.
44 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-21 15:45:28
Answer/Reply:
For your (my) age: 6.5 or less.
Keep an eye on your cholesterol too.
57 year old Male
Posted: 2009-04-20 14:41:46
Answer/Reply:
getting your glucose to be at a good level and eating right is not easy.sometimes it takes time to get it to a healthy level with diet control and medication. your 7.2 is good and you should get credit for it but if you want to be at the optimal number and health, a little more is even better. I suggest instead of worry about the numbers, you can make it easier by learning and reading about foods like fiber and cinnamon, and fish in your diet that can assist you at your goal without cutting out foods or limitting yourself more.
I have found fresh strawberries and steel cut Irish oatmeal for breakfast keep my blood sugar down and keep me from being hungry til lunch. I used fiber and cinnamon to keep it lower too and drink alot of water with a piece of lemon in it. I go crazy on salads with ranch and nuts and seeds and soy beans and dried cranberries...I eat subway and get a footlong with extra tomatoes and spinache and whole wheat bread and avacado!!!
some days a bowl of broccolli with shredded cheddar cheese hits the spot and a fresh piece of smoked salmon! Its easy to be diabetic when you keep a log and learn how your body feels about foods by keeping a logbook of all your foods and glucose levels. what works for you may not work for others. I been a RN for 30 yearseing aware. and a diabetic for 3.
49 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-23 01:47:13
Question/Comment:
I just started on metformin and in the process of building up my levels. I quit smoking about a year ago and consequently gained about 25lbs. Now, I've developed high insulin levels from the weight gain of quitting smoking. Who knew! Anyway, I'm supposed to lose weight but from what I see above, that may be next to impossible. Great. I'm really discouraged.
57 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-18 12:12:54
Answer/Reply:
I have been on Metformin for a couple of years now and have had no problems....my levels are great and I have lost #70, so that has helped a lot. everyone is different so don't be discouraged. Give it time , it might just work for you
62 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-31 16:04:19
Answer/Reply:
I have not had a a problem with the Metformin . But some people do.. It does help me with the high sugar ... Mine is under control with this..
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-16 11:26:18
Answer/Reply:
Don't be discouraged. I've been on Metfortin for 6yrs. I was also weihgt heavy. liked 290. and I stand only 5' 1" which wasn't good. I finley lost the weight. it took me 3 yrs but I lost the weight. kept thinking positive it will happen.. 51 year old woman..
50 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-18 16:39:56
Answer/Reply:
Hey, don't be discouraged!
I have been on Metformin for a while now....During that time I (let myself go) and put on 15 pounds. However, I have now started losing again...Just got to be more active...Still working on that one myself...
You can do it!!!
57 year old Male
Posted: 2009-04-20 14:44:36
Answer/Reply:
I started metformin about 5 months ago for pcos and have lost 30 pounds
29 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-27 15:46:46
Answer/Reply:
Hi was recently diagnosed with PCO syndrome (2 weeks ago) .. I just started Metformin i think mine are 500mg to loose weight and hopefully start seeing my periods again.
I was a size 10/12 and blew up in the last threw years.. my eating habits changed from fish and veggies and fruits to a lot of carbs.. ( i moved and got married) so new culture and new eating habits. The Doctor wants me to lose 24 pounds in 3 months..so that would be September..
will this medication really make you loose weight?
I have cut down on carbs.. i only take in 20g a day or more.. at the most 100 grams.
Some days no carbs. I dont miss them beucase i usd to barely eat thacarbs.. im back to eating fish (non breaded just fillets) at home.. and tukey burger (low seasoned homemade, and chicken.. grilled..
i want to go back to being a size 10/12 and i want to be able to get pregnant. I want to loose 70 pounds
How sure is anyone that this is attainable?
30 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-22 03:54:20
Question/Comment:
i have been on this medication for 6 months, my sugar levels have still not regulated. the side effects should also include dry mouth and sometimes dizziness.
57 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-12 16:14:45
Question/Comment:
I'm newly diagnosed. I exercise 3-4 times a week but can't ever seem to lose weight. Along with one metformin (500 mg) per day, I take an aloe vera supplement to help cleanse me internally but I've only lost a pound or two in 2 months. Every morsel I eat seems to stick on me forever, even though it's low-fat. low-carb, and high fiber. Could it be my metformin or just a side effect of being a diabetic? Anyone else going through this?
41 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-12 03:46:33
Answer/Reply:
You should talk to your Dr. about possibly increasing your metfomin dosage. 500 mg. a day is a LOW dose. I take 1000 mgs. twice daily,and also take Januvia,which works EXTREMELY well with Metformin,and I also eat low carb foods,NO Sugar,Excersice regularly,get plenty of sleep,And my A1C levels are ALWAYS under 7,(ussualy 6-6.7) Good luck,and best wishes! With proper care and treatment,a person with type 2 Diabetes can live a VERY good life,with nearly no Bad symptoms! I AM! Take care of your self,Keep talking with your Dr.and live life to the FULLEST, you deserve nothing less than the VERY best!
44 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-21 15:56:47
Answer/Reply:
I have been a diabetic for 3 years now and am not sure I realize that I am. I take Metforman 1000mg at my last meal of the day. I was wondering what Januvia is and how much of it do u take and for what. Thanks ahead of time 56yr.old female
57 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-27 14:37:19
Answer/Reply:
ALWAY'S Listen to your Dr.s advice,do your OWN personal research,(webmd.com is a GREAT resource!)Eat right,excercise according to you dr.s reccomendations,Eat 5-7 small meals per day,(low-carb,NO Sugar,)Get plenty of sleep @ nite,(6-9 hrs. if possible)and try to always keep a positive outlook! I've had type 2 diabetes since 2000,and doing ALL of these suggestions has kept me very healthy,NO diabetes related complications,and an A1C level ALWAYS under 7.Keep up the good work everybody,it DOE"S take work,but the results can keep you healthy,AND around long enough to see your kid's & grand-kid's graduate from college!!! Best wishes to ALL,you CAN do it!
44 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-21 16:08:56
Answer/Reply:
iGuard.org is also a good source of info on meds. As well as Nutritiondata.com on foods.
81 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-28 17:11:23
Question/Comment:
After 40 yrs of nursing, I am a RN who has a worn out delapidated body. 3 yrs ago, I had to go on disability, after battling type 2 diabetes for 10 years and the multiple health problems ass. with the ds. I feel I probably was diabetic before that, but didn't get checked out ( and being a nurse should have known better). Anyway. after trying a long list of meds and going on insulin, my doc started me on metformin and it worked great. Took a while for it to be effective, but it finally did kick in. Some of the other meds I tried did make me gain weight, but the metformin didn't. Didn't lose wt either. After I went on disability, I did sudddenly start losing weight. I had had problems with nausea and vomiting for a long time and was diagnosed with diabetic gastroparesis. I was taken off of the metformin at that time due to the increased risk of developing lactic acidosis. Back to the other oral antidiabetics and huge doses of insulin (140 u. of Lantus) It wasn't workiing! I begged to go back on metformin. My doc finally agreed, with the stipulatioon that I have lab panels to ck kidney function every mo. Every thing is back in the norm now. Last A1C was 6.8 (prior one was 12). The point I'm trying to make is, weigh out the pros and cons for yourself. No 2 bodies work the same. I think metforim works better for me because I am very insulin resistant. From what I understand, metformin is the only drug that works for that at this time. If anyone hears of anything else, I would love to hear about it. I was taking Avandimet which is a combo of Avandia and metformin. That was about the time acouple of years ago when all of the hype came out about Avandia causing heart attacks & other heart problems.(before that he had put me on it because it was suppose to be good for your heart). Go figure!!!! Anyway any feedback anyone has which might have to steer me on a better path, I woould really appreciate. Thanks, janell56
59 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-08 17:24:37
Answer/Reply:
i would say glyburide not sure if spelled right but worked for me
50 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-28 21:58:02
Answer/Reply:
I was taking metformin 2- 1,000 mg tabs per day; blood sugar still not under control, my doctor added glypizide which dropped my blood sugar too fast. I am now on 15 mg. actos. I take one twice a day; my a1c went from 8.5 to 7.7 in 2 months; my doctor is now prescribing that I take a third tab (my insurance won't pay for the 45 mg. tabs) so that we can see if that brings it down under 7. I like it and so far I have been happy with the results.
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-06 03:04:10
Question/Comment:
metformin made me anorexic, couldn't sleep because it made my body excited, it didn't help at all with my dka symptoms. my doctor took me off it now i'm doing alot better. i'm taking american ginseng now it has the same effects but without any side effects. my proof is my a1c levels i was 8.8 three week later it was 8.2 and it's still going down!
35 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-08 04:11:51
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
I have had same problems and more with this product. Have been researching ginseng with my naturapath. What dosage do you take?
Thanks for your help
Posted: 2009-03-15 10:22:54
Answer/Reply:
i am also on metform i take 100mgs 2x a day i just started this amount about 2 weeks ago. I dont think its working because my morning tests go from 130 to 280 this morning. what exactly is the kind of "american ginsene are you taking I 'd like to give a natural product a try. Is that all your taking? thanks frank male 60 yo
61 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-29 16:17:56
Answer/Reply:
where can you get the american ginseng?
40 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-30 16:00:47
Answer/Reply:
You said that you are taking american ginseng? Is this just a vitamin supplement and how is this effect your sugar levels? How much do you take and does it keep your sugar levels down? Is this prescribed by your doctor? Do you take any other medication for diabetes or what?
45 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-03 21:24:34
Question/Comment:
Is it normal for your glucose level to get higher after taking Metformin? I have been taking1000mgx2 for 8mo.& my glucose level seems to go up before it goes down.
50 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-05 20:20:40
Question/Comment:
I was on Metformin 500mgs daily during evening meals but my endocronologist took me
off it due to it's interaction with my thyroid med which is Levothyroxine 88mcgs.She now has me
on Januvia for the past month. I'm having alot of congestion and upper respitory
sinus allergies since taking it. I also have had bouts of heartburn while taking it with food.
I have left the doctor messages but still insists that I take this new drug because I'm
on life long therapy of the thyroid med since I had a total thyroidectomy 3 yrs. ago. I can't
seem to lose weight even on a low-fat and low carb diet, exercise for at least an hour
walking and using a stationary bike for 5-6 days a week. I really don't know what else to
do. Does anybody have some suggestions? Female, 56 yrs
57 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-05 14:07:49
Answer/Reply:
I would get yourself a second opinion concerning the Januvia if you do not see an end to the symptoms you mention having after you began taking the meds.
However concerning weight lose I have found that it is not so much what you as it is how much and when you eat. So I suggest you change the times you eat and the amount you eat during each meal. And never sleep within two hours of eating.
Hope that helps.
56 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-23 12:18:51
Question/Comment:
How often should your kidneys be tested if your on 500 mg of Metformin 3 times a day. Also my doctor has not seen me in almost a year since I've been on it, is this normal or should I be getting more tests done to see if it is working?
46 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-25 18:34:50
Answer/Reply:
I have been a diabetic since 2001 and to keep track of how I am doing even if I mess up with some foods I always get my A1C test done every 3 months. I also do a test for my kidney function as well. It is very important to have this done to let you know how you are doing and to prevent harmful affects to your kidneys etc. Testing your blood and taking the medicine over a long period of time without getting this test done is like driving with your eyes closed. Get the test and be sure and safe you are doing your very best to live your best. God Bless
Hope4Us
49 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-03 11:21:04
Answer/Reply:
When I first started taking this drug, I was seeing a doctor who eventually moved away. I then started seeing my current doctor and both of these doctors insist on seeing me and doing a blood workup every three months without fail. I was told that there could be a problem that doesn't present symptoms until it's almost too late and it's better to catch it early.
52 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-08 03:00:08
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
you should see your doctor t least every three months and have an a1c test done
Posted: 2009-03-09 21:25:44
Answer/Reply:
My kidney function tests including the Glomfilteration rate fluctuate from just within normal ranges to just outside normal ranges, my Dr. took me off Metformin to help protect my kidneys and added another ace inhibitor and beta blocker to reduce my blood pressure which isn't terribly high....averages about 134/66. But my A1c went up to 6.2% from over a year at being 6.0%.
He was checking my kidney function tests every 6 months now I will insist on having them checked every 3 mos. along with my A1c, I'm also considering going back on Metformin 500mg 2X per day.
62 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-13 14:17:47
Answer/Reply:
my doctor tests me every 3 months. you might want to demand to be tested. hmo's?
54 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-17 16:23:02
Answer/Reply:
My husband and my son are diabetic and my husband is on Metformin also. His doctor has him come in every 6 months to do fasting blood work on him also he has a check up. It is very important to have your feet checked and also ask your doctor about getting an A1C done. This checks your blood sugars over the last 3 months. This is very unusual to not have seen your doctor since you have been put on that medicine. Especially since you are on a high dosage. I hope this helps.
34 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-24 15:56:04
Answer/Reply:
Your kidneys have to be tested at least every six months. But if you cannot do it and you are not so serious in your diabetes or the expenses bother you, It is a must every year.-Nellie62
63 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-24 18:22:22
Answer/Reply:
you should be in to your doctor between 3 to 6 months at least! not wait over a year. sometimes it seems like they don't do much. But tell them what problems you are having, plus have a A1C TEST.
48 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-27 18:02:56
Answer/Reply:
Dear iGuard is this a dangers drug I dont sleep and night and Im so drain I dont feel like doing anything after I finishing working my 8 hours IM just tired could this be my medical please tell me and I forget a lot and Im only 48years old please help thankyou.
49 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-20 09:31:20
Question/Comment:
I am taking 1 750 metformin er in thed morning and 2 in the evening, I eat like a pig and I lose weight, I seem to think it is the metformin but my doctor does not seem to be concerned, could use some feed back on this.
60 year old Male
Posted: 2009-02-18 22:52:00
Answer/Reply:
Metformin can help you lose weight by regulating your body's insulin. I have lost 40 pounds since going on 500mg metformin 3x a day.
39 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-23 09:19:38
Answer/Reply:
How is this possible. I was on 1,000 mg a day, 500 mg in AM and 500 mg at night and gained over thirty pounds in about two months. So I quite taking anythng and now can't seem to loose the extra weight
67 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-07 12:07:16
Answer/Reply:
I take 1,000 mg in the morning and another 1,000 at night and haven't lost any weight which I would love to lose 30 lbs.
44 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-18 15:57:51
Answer/Reply:
I seem to have the opposite reaction to the Metformin or Glucophage as I have gained weight. I do have some other side effects from it also.
57 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-18 23:07:59
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
The body weight of people taking Metformin tends to remain stable or even decrease somewhat. Increased appetite has not been documented as a side effect of metformin. Although metformin may cause weight loss, it is important for you to continue to eat healthy and increase your activity level as part of treating your condition. If you continue to have trouble eating in moderation, you may want to follow up with your doctor to see if he or she wants to make adjustments to your treatment.
Posted: 2009-02-23 13:17:02
Answer/Reply:
My doctor told me that metformin has the side effect of weight loss in some people. I am one of those. I'm not complaining, it is the easiest I have ever shed weight. I wouldn't worry unless you are getting below what is healthy for you.
53 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-07 10:15:40
Answer/Reply:
I take 500 MG of Metformin at breakfast and 1000 MG at dinner. So far I have had no weight loss and my A1C has only come down a 1/2 point. My blood sugar levals are not real high but, over the number the Diabetes Assoc. desires. I only wish I could loose weight and not be hungry all the time. Good Luck.
73 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-18 11:03:40
Answer/Reply:
HI AM 58 YEAR YOUNG FEMALE. I TAKE 1000 METFORMIN TWICE ADAY. AND I ALL SO GAINED WEIGHT. AND I WAS ON ACTOS . BUT NOW OFF ACTOS AND AM ON BEYETTAAND HAVE LOST 27 POUNDS. WAS ON THE OTHERS FFOR 9 YEARS AND GAINED.BUT NOW DOING GREAT SUGARS ARE UNDER CONTROL AND LOVIN LIFE. KATHY FL.
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-16 21:16:05
Answer/Reply:
i've been taking metformin now for some years and i'm not losing weight it's a battle to loose weight for me . i guess something is making you loose weight. you might want to see another doctor
54 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-17 16:19:42
Question/Comment:
I'm taking this medication to alter my hormone levels in order to increase my fertility level. Has anyone else been prescribed this medication for this reason?
38 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-15 00:29:05
Answer/Reply:
No but my doctor did tell me I should be on the pill while taking Metformin because it might make me more fertile.
37 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-07 21:31:25
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
I was prescribed Metformin when I went through invitro in 2004. I have PCOS and my eggs basically have a hard shell surrounding them which made getting pregnant by conventional methods nearly impossible. Our daughter turns 4 this month. Best of luck to you, it seemed to do its job for us.
Posted: 2009-03-19 09:28:02
Question/Comment:
I have been taking this medication for POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME but I do't truly understand how it works for this.
35 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-11 23:20:35
Answer/Reply:
I am taking it for the same reason...the Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and am wondering the same as you.
28 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-13 12:38:40
Answer/Reply:
I suffer from PCOS as well. It is often paired with Insulin Resistance that can lead to full blown Diabetes. So I got prescribed this to regulate that problem along with my hormone regimen.
29 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-26 21:24:00
Answer/Reply:
All of the info that I have gotten says that the Glucophage for people with PCOS is to help prevent kidney failure (long term) and to prevent the onset of Adult Type II Diabetes. I have been on this for years. I do notice a significant difference in my body and energy level.
35 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-05 18:54:52
Answer/Reply:
I have PCOD as well. Due to the messed up body chemistry, most of us end up with Insulin Resistance. They have you on this to try to keep it from developing into full blown diabetes and making things even worse.
29 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-26 21:21:26
Question/Comment:
I've been taking 1000 mg Metformin ER for about a year. Intially my blood sugar was ~125
Now it's averaging ~170. What's up? Do I need a different medication?
59 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-10 14:05:17
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
A higher blood sugar may mean that you need to make changes to what you eat on a regular basis. It could also mean that you will need to increase your dose of metformin, or add another type of medicine to help control your blood sugar. It is best to follow up with your doctor to find out how he or she would like to adjust your treatment plan.
Posted: 2009-02-11 17:58:13
Question/Comment:
My sugar is always higher in the morning. Some of the information that I was given when I first started on Metformin said that if this happened on a regular basis, there were different medications that you should take at night. I have spoken to my doctor ( 2 different ones in about 8 years) about this and have been told to just take more Medformin at night. Taking 2 500 MG makes not much difference. Sometimes its even higher. I find that taking a small chocolate with 1-500 MG gives me a lower reading in the morning, but the doctor says that isn't logical. When I had a heart valve replaced ( birth defect) in 2002, the doctors put me on insulin. That made my sugar count go sky high. They had me on high doses, until I just stopped taking the insulin and went back to Medformin, and my sugar count went back to the readings that I had before.
67 year old Male
Posted: 2009-02-03 16:22:45
Answer/Reply:
I find that the closer I take my evening Metformin to midnight my morning sugars are alot lower, which makes it so much easier to keep them down the rest of the day.
48 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-18 21:00:39
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Try drinking Mona Vie juice. My husband had the same issues and he started drinking the juice and he is doing great. If you decide to do that call me at 702-328-6182 and i can get it delivered to you.
Helayne
Posted: 2009-03-05 15:13:44
Answer/Reply:
Sir, I have been fighting Diabetes since I finally quit denying it. How long you've had it never matters. You got it, fight it. A.) Obtain the services of an Endrocrinologist. This doctor is skilled in helping you correct your level and type of insulin that is needed for daytime (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and nightime (slow release) use. B.) Get a meter. I have an AccuCheck Compact Plus ( I believe that is the name) and it is very accurate. You can get the supplies for checking free from Ahmed (check the firm out on Google). The supplies are lancets, cassettes and very possibly the alcohol wipes that are necessary to clean your finger. The lancet is contained in a snap-release finger prick plastic tube that barely touches your finger as you can set the depth guage. The meter is loaded with a 17 strip cassette that pushes out one at a time and tells you on the back how many are left. Once the meter beeps you can apply the blood drop to the strip and read the results within 5 seconds. C.) Use the log book as this is your visual guideline as to what your glucose level is. Write down the date on the left under the name of the weekday, draw a horizontal line dividing the space into upper and lower half and write down the time above and when you see the glucose figure on the meter, log that result below the time. Just to the right of that data you can fill in the amount of Insulin that is necessary for THAT PARTICULAR METER READING, wait about a half hour and then eat your meal. Yes, you will have to get up maybe at 6 a.m. to eat at 6:30 or 7:00 a.m. but, you have set your system up for the usage of the amount of say NOVALOG that will handle the breakfast you plan to eat. Do the same for lunch and dinner and everything will pan out ok. Check with the endocrinologist on the sliding scale she/he will determine is best for each meter reading. At night, around 9 p.m. or so, use the meter to see where you are before bedtime and then draw sufficient insulin (maybe LANTUS) to last the night. I have been able to adjust my readings by this method so that I know my A1c will come down from 7.6 where it was last month. Remember the A1c is an average of your glucose levels over a three month period so it gives you sufficient time to really do a good job on settling down the ups and downs of your malady. Only you can handle this problem. Watch your carbs too. The calories will take care of themselves. Keep the carbs down and stop worrying. Worry is sinful, concern is admirable. Trust Him too. Joe
74 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-07 13:20:06
Question/Comment:
I'm a 55 yr old male I take 1000 mg twice a day. I also take Glipizide 10 mg 2 pills twice a day.
When is the best time to take Metformin.
56 year old Male
Posted: 2009-02-01 14:24:50
Question/Comment:
. My blood sugar is rarely over 135 unless I happen to check too soon after I eat. The other morning I got up and it was 124. I ate a muffin, egg white, canadian bacon and cheese and drank water and it went down to 112 (1hr. and 45 minutes after I ate). This was without taking any drugs for blood sugar. That happens quite often.
My doctor wants me to take the Metformin 500mg twice a day. I have tried it for two weeks and cannot tell it is any better. I feel awful taking the drug. Need to know if Metformin makes anyone feel blurry eyed. I don't have a problem seeing until I take Metformin and it seems to be hard to focus clearly. I also cannot tell that it lowers my blood sugar any better than my diet does. I don't do well with medicines anyway and am wondering if I need to just diet and exercise?? It looks like Metformin is not a drug that will do much good in the long run. Kidney failure? renal failure? Why take drugs to have to take more drugs for somthing the other drug caused and then another and on and on. I feel great and do not have lots of issues with the Type 2 diabetes. I know I need to loose about 50 lbs and I think if I do that I can control the diabetes well. Has anyone else felt worse taking this drug??
62 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-20 15:13:19
Question/Comment:
I also used Metforming for a while with no serious side-effects, except the nausea and the fact that I didn't feel like eating anymore and sometimes I would wake up with a terrible headache. I stopped using it, went to the chemist and ordered the herbal product called "AntaGolin" and got myself a Insulin home kit. I've been on AntaGolin for nearly two months now and the fact that I eat three times a day, changed our white sugar to brown sugar, etc. and go for a few laps in the swimming pool every day, changed everything. My insulin level is normal and I feel better than I've ever felt in my life...:-)
47 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-14 14:24:43
Answer/Reply:
The switch to brown sugar from white sugar is not important: adding molasses to white sugar produced brown sugar.
82 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-24 04:19:14
Question/Comment:
I was put on Metformin in June of 2000. My first problem was for the first 6-9 months, I should have bought stock for Immodium AD, then the last 3 months of use I lost 30 lbs, every time I ate I vomitted it all back up. That was the last time I used it.
My Dr. just put me back on it and I'm having no problems with 1,000mg but we just uped the dose to 2000mg and I'm back to buying Immodium AD. Just don't know what else to do. Are there other drugs to use instead?
40 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-12 13:04:17
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Sounds like we joined the very same club.Your letter could have been mine .I'm having the very same problem.I take 192 to 384 Imodium AD 's a month.The Dr. tells me to eat them as often as needed.I wish he had this problem;he might have a better answer.
Posted: 2009-01-17 12:40:26
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Metformin Cephalexin Atenolol Cyclobenzaprine Lisinopril Sertraline Zoloft Levaquin Mirapex Celebrex Hydralazine Metronidazol Furosemide Prednisone Levothyroxine Sodium Phentermine HCl Add
Metformin Cephalexin Atenolol Cyclobenzaprine Lisinopril Sertraline Zoloft Levaquin Mirapex Celebrex Hydralazine Metronidazol Furosemide Prednisone Levothyroxine Sodium Phentermine HCl Add
Metformin Cephalexin Atenolol Cyclobenzaprine Lisinopril Sertraline Zoloft Levaquin Mirapex Celebrex Hydralazine Metronidazol Furosemide Prednisone Levothyroxine Sodium Phentermine HCl
Can't find your medication? Email us at: support@iGuard.org
Can't find your medication? Email us at: support@iGuard.org
Can't find your medication? Email us at: support@iGuard.org
Posted: 2009-01-17 12:54:45
Question/Comment:
I use to take Metformin 500mg, now I take Glumetza with Metformin in it 500mg 2 times a day. My question is where can I go to get prescription-cost assistance with my medications which keep going up at my local pharmacy (Walgreens) ?
Mrs. Rose Williams
w.rose55@yahoo.com
52 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-11 13:00:02
Answer/Reply:
If you call the maker of the medication, they will usually give you a telephone number or web address to go to for prescription assistance.
40 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-12 13:06:16
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Walmart 4 dollar prescriptions has gglucophage for 4 dollars
Posted: 2009-01-13 11:19:57
Answer/Reply:
Metforamin is on the $4.00 prescription list at Wal-Mart. Also, check your local parmacy for these new "cheap" prescription lists. Our grocery store (Brookshires in Texas) has gone to $3.99 for their medications.
52 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-01 08:39:50
Answer/Reply:
Metformin is also on the $4.00 list at Sweetbay in Fl and I am told Hannafords in Maine should also honor this.
67 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-18 17:51:19
Answer/Reply:
Metformin is a drug that is on the $4.00 list at Wal-Mart. Although I love Walgreens, they do not offer the $4.00 plans.
70 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-03 12:20:08
Question/Comment:
I have been taking Metformin for about 3 years for chemically induced type 2 diabetes. I was on steroids for a long time due to Grave's Disease, and I almost went blind before I had surgery to give my eye muscles more room. My A1c is 5.4, which is almost ideal, with the Metformin. I have had no side effects with it, and I urge any one to PLEASE talk to their doctor before stopping any medications. It could cost you your life, or cause serious health problems.
61 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-05 16:56:27
You may post comments for the benefit of other patients or post questions other patients might be able to answer. Comments are submitted for possible publication on the condition that they may be edited. Only your age and gender will be published with your comment, although your other user details will be securely recorded for verification purposes.
Comments may be either questions or answers to previously posted questions. Any iGuard.org user may post questions and reply.