Diabetics and diarrhoea

Some people cannot tolerate Metformin in any form. Some get on OK with the Slow Release (SR) version. Which one are you using @witchfire ?

Hi. Yes, if you're not already on it, ask the GP for the Slow release (SR) version of Metformin

immodium

Definitely ask for slow release metformin, but also watch your carbohydrate consumption - too much can apparently cause gastric issues.

Hi I have had almost constant distress and been to doctor three times in as many months since starting metfomin tablets. I am grateful to this site as doctors never said there was an alternative type of metfomin I did take. So annoying as they did not even acknowledge the tablets CD be responsible.

When I was first diagnosed, I was started on Metformin 250 mg for a week then increased to 500 mg which I took for 4 days then had to stop. It triggered a wicked migraine which lasted for 4 days, bloating, and a feeling that I wanted to go to the toilet but nothing happened when I went. Finally I stopped it and things settled within 2 days. I am now on Glumetza 1000 mg daily (slow release Metformin) which works. It seems that as Metformin is the first line of medications used for diabetics that is what they like to use. I had a very difficult time convincing my physician that Metformin was the cause for my symptoms. I have also tried other medications which include Metformin such as Janumet, and had similar symptoms. I refuse to go on Metformin.

Am I the only one that takes metformin and sometimes has constipation?
Especially when I cut bread and pasta I've some problems in the bathtoom. I've found that a mix of psilluim and linen seeds works great, anyway.

Not all doctors will issue SR Metformin due to the cost which is more than double the standard Metformin.

I know this as today I was told by the GP when I asked for SR ... not given. He said my issues may have been due to being on too high a dose of Metformin as my BS had come down so drastically ....