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Advice Please!

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kate2482

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My dad has just been prescribed Metformin for type 2 after 4 days of small dose and horrific indigeston has stopped taking them. this isnt a listed side effect........and now i worried he wont go back to the doctors ......is this normal what could have caused it and what will happen if he doesnt take the tablets?
 
Hi Kate,
Indigestion does occur for some people taking metformin, just google metformin and indigestion and you will see that lots of sites list this.
The metformin is to help lower dad's blood sugar readings and also protects the heart. It is usual to start with a small dose and gradually increase it. If he cannot tolerate it please ask him to go back to his G.P. and ask for the slow release version as this is not so problematic.
Have a good read around the forum and any advice re his diet and blood sugars readings then please ask. There is always someone willing to help.

Regards,
Catherine.
 
Hi Kate,

Indigestion is the most common side effect if metformin - in fact it's often referred to as metfartin because of this unfortunalte effect.

One way of minimalising the effect is to take them with some water in the middle of your meal, not before or after the meal. That way they get digested along with the food and this seems to reduce the side effects.

If your Dad still has problems with them then ask the doctor to switch him to the slow release version. These seem to be much milder on the stomach and don't cause the same digestive problems.
 
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