Let me address the "sick to my stomach" issue you are having.....
I had a very similar reaction when I was diagnosed six months or so ago, I was put on 1000mg Metformin twice a day. I experienced no stomach upset issues, however my appetite took a dive and I acquired a nasty taste in my mouth and on my lips, it was the taste that upset me more than anything. I struggle to finish two slices of toast for my evening meal. At this point I had no idea why this happening to me, and dropped 15kg.
I am also taking Vit B, B12, C & E supplements.
About 3 months into my diagnosis I went into hospital for a minor operation to remove some particular nasty nasal polyps and I was told to not take any medication 24 hours before going in and while I was there overnight. After the op i actually enjoyed my lunch, dinner and breakfast the next day. It was at this point I realised it was the Metformin causing my issues. One local GP visit later I was put on Gliclazide and taken off of Metformin.
All was dandy until I started putting the weight back on. I made the decision to start taking the metformin again and carefully monitor my Gliclazide usage in conjunction with my BG meters. I have not had the same reaction to the Metformin again, and am managing to keep the weight off. win/win
I have been an avid reader of these boards for some time now, The usual advice for those who have bad symptoms from taking Metformin is to ask to be put on the slow release version of it, but this was not suggested by my GP. As with any change of meds, you are best off chatting to your GP about this, don't bother with the diabetic nurse as she will probably refer you to the GP.
Lastly I would say this: All this is written from my own experience of Metformin, take away from it what you will and good luck getting it sorted.
Jeremy
PS there is additional relevant discussion here:-
http://www.diabetes.co.uk/forum/threads/metformin-and-risk-of-vitamin-b12-deficiency.122698/