• Guest - w'd love to know what you think about the forum! Take the 2025 Survey »

Bad stomach

K

KerrieG

Active Member
Messages
38
Since starting Metformin a few months ago I've had awful stomach cramps now and again, followed by a bit of an upset stomach. I was just wondering if this is a common thing?

Thanks :)
 
I've read on the forum that some people have been affected that way by Metformin and others aren't. I take Metformin SR (slow release) 2000mg a day. I take 2 tablets once a day and I always take them with or immediately after my main meal and I've never had tummy problems from them.

If you're on the ordinary Metformin you could ask your GP to change you to the SR version, you've less chance of tummy probs with them apparently.
 
Hello There

I have been taking Metformin normal release and I will admit that I do sometimes have stomach problems. These lessen if I take the Metformin about 10 mins BEFORE food. Seems to work for me but I am quite new to diabetes so could be talking a load of twaddle. I have also heard that if you have problems with the normal tablets ask your GP for the SR version. Not tried that myself however so cant really comment. Hang in there, i'm sure that someone who does know what they are talking about will be along soon.

Regards

Chris
 
Many people have gastric problems on Metformin. Most adapt after a coupkle of weeks. anyone who doesn't can ask for the Slow Release version, which is less irritating.
Personally, I wouldn't like to take any medicine other than Metformin, because everything else seems to have much worse side effects.
Hana
 
Thanks guys! Least I know I'm not the only one now. I've been on the Metformin for a few months so I thought it may have calmed down by now. I'll try and ask the GP about the slow release ones!

Thanks again :)
 
I've been on metformin for 5 years now, always the standard version and a high dose. I have found that eating wheat makes the bad stomach worse. I don't replace bread with anything else, this helps me cut carbs too.
 
KerrieG said:
Since starting Metformin a few months ago I've had awful stomach cramps now and again, followed by a bit of an upset stomach. I was just wondering if this is a common thing?

Thanks :)
Click to expand...

Yes, sadly it is. I take bog standard Metformin and am fine, others do seem to have problems, the best bet is to ask for the slow release version, they seem to be kinder to people with sensitive tummies. Good luck.
 
It is a common thing. If it's just happening occasionally with you, you might want to note what types of food you're eating when you get the 'tablet tummy' as we call it in our house. For me, after a few weeks of starting to take metaformin, my stomach got used to it for the most part, and now only certain foods trigger the upset, like seafood, which is a shame as I love it. And strangely certain types of salad leaves that you get in the pre-prepared bags. :?

Vicky
 
Back
Top