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Despite the fact that there is no known cure for type 2 diabetes, medications like metformin have been instrumental in improving the quality of life and life expectancy for diabetes patients. The medication works to lower blood sugar levels, so that they are kept within a safe range. Unfortunately, as is the case with almost all drugs, metformin can pose its own risk of side effects. As a diabetes patient or caregiver, it is important that you understand and recognize all of the risks and side effects of diabetes medications, such as metformin.
Metformin Side Effects
Metformin commonly causes mild side effects that primarily affect the digestive system. These side effects usually surface soon after you start taking metformin for the first time, but they reduce over time. These side effects can include:
- Bloating and gas
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Heartburn
- Weight loss
- Headaches
- Metallic taste in the mouth
In most cases, these symptoms subside over time, but if they persist or cause considerable discomfort, make it a point to inform your doctor.
In some cases, metformin side effects can be more severe and require swift medical attention. Severe metformin side effects can include:
Lactic acidosis – This is a rare condition that is potentially life-threatening. It occurs when metformin builds up in the body, causing imbalances in pH levels. The side effect has a mortality rate that is roughly 30 to 50 percent, making emergency medical attention critical. Fortunately, it is extremely rare, affecting an estimated 0.01% of all cases. Warning signs of this condition can include extreme fatigue, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, breathing problems, dizziness, heart rate irregularities, muscle pain, and cold chills or sudden hot flushes.
Hypoglycemia – This is again a rare side effect that only occurs under specific conditions, such as if your diet is not suitable to your condition, if you engage in high-intensity exercise, drink too much alcohol, or are on other diabetes medications. If you notice any signs of hypoglycaemia, such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, light-headedness, and changes in heartbeat, seek emergency medical care.
Anemia – This is also a rare condition that develops only in some cases, with levels of vitamin B12 falling drastically low, resulting in anaemia or a low red blood cell count. This risk is higher for patients who don’t get adequate amounts of dietary vitamin B12 or calcium. Talk to your doctor if you notice symptoms of anaemia, such as frequent feelings of weakness and dizziness. Your doctor will be able to recommend an appropriate dosage of vitamin B12 supplements or changes to your metformin dosage to remedy the problem.
Taking Precautions Against Metformin Side Effects
You can minimize the risk of suffering from side effects linked to metformin use by taking a few basic precautions:
- Start with lower dosage – The risk of experiencing side effects can be reduced significantly by starting with lower doses and increasing the dosage gradually over a period of time. If you discuss these concerns with your doctor, the starting dose should be around 500 milligrams.
- Use metformin with meals – Taking your dose of metformin with a meal can help to lower the risk of any gastrointestinal discomfort or indigestion.
- Ask for extended-release metformin – Ask your doctor if he/she can prescribe extended-release metformin as this type of medication has a slower release time, which results in much milder side effects.
- Don’t crush your meds – Metformin medications should be swallowed whole as crushing them will result in much quicker absorption, increasing the risk of side effects.
- Avoid alcohol intake – Consuming alcohol, especially in large amounts, significantly increases the risk of serious side effects, such as lactic acidosis, so avoid drinking when on your medication.
If you have any other concerns or experience side effects despite following your doctor’s instructions and these basic precautions, make sure to seek medical care swiftly.
