Fasting lipids blood test

mum2kids said:

Hi all, my GP has referred me for a fasting lipids blood test. I'm on 500 mg Metaformin twice a day and various other medications. As I'm type 2 diabetic, do I need to or not fast for this blood test as GP says I do.

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Fasting for a lipid profile test will give a true representation of your triglycerides. I don't think fasting affects any of the other measurements (cholesterol, LDL and HDL).

When you eat, your triglycerides can temporarily rise, so the result isn't all that accurate.

If your GP has suggested that you fast prior to the test then that's the best thing to do. Given that metformin does not cause hypoglycemia, and providing your not on any other BG lowering medication, then there is no risk of adverse effects from fasting beforehand.

Yes, a fasting test is best if you want accurate results for your triglycerides.

I don't know about other medications, but missing a Metformin dose won't matter at all. You can still have water on this fast if that helps.

Bluetit1802 said:

Yes, a fasting test is best if you want accurate results for your triglycerides.

I don't know about other medications, but missing a Metformin dose won't matter at all. You can still have water on this fast if that helps.

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I assumed that fasting meant no food and only water, but the patient should take their usual prescribed medication unless specifically advised not to?

GrantGam said:

I assumed that fasting meant no food and only water, but the patient should take their usual prescribed medication unless specifically advised not to?

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Some medications need to be taken with food. Metformin is one of them. As it is cumulative in the body, missing one dose will have zero effect.