Advice on Metformin side effects??

[syko]

Just been diagnosed with type 2 - I have been taking Metformin for about 5 weeks and are taking 2 per day. I am experiencing lots of stomach pains and cramps/ constant nausea/ feeling very cold on many occasions and am constantly tired. Looking at some of the comments on the forum this seems to be pretty normal for the circumstances? Does anyone know how long this is likely to continue for or should I be seeking my GP to change my medication? If so can anyone advise an alternative??

 

[jack412]

is it the slow release xr or sr? I understand the UK still use standard metformin a lot. It has more symptoms, some take it during a meal and it helps
cold and tired isn't normally from metformin
metformin is the benchmark for T2 for lots of reasons that google will tell you
you may be able to cut the dose or go off the meds through diet

 

[syko]

Hi Jack,
Thanks for the reply - The tablets are not slow release ones - is that what I need to change to?

 

[jack412]

yes, go back to dr and get the slow release, try them for 3 weeks or longer, if you still have gut symptoms, you may need to move up the drug ladder
Diet is very important and will reduce your BG

 

[Bluetit1802]

What were your diagnostic blood sugar readings? (HbA1c test) and do you need to lose weight/increase exercise? I ask because you may be able to manage without medication and try diet and exercise only if your levels weren't too drastic. Many of us do.