metformin and insulin

Hi. First, Metformin can cause stomach problems for quite a few people. It's not normally serious but it's possible it is causing your stomach cramps. If you aren't on the SR (Slow Release) version then try asking your GP to move you to that version. Gliclazide is not normally a problem. If you are not getting good blood sugar control with the Gliclazide then it may be worth discussing insulin with the GP. The GP should be trying three tablets e.g. Metformin, then Gliclazide and then if needed something like Sitagliptin or one of the other diabetes tablets (See NICE Diabetes Pathways doc on the web). If these fail to control the blood sugar then insulin becomes a sensible option. Some GPs, like mine initially, won't prescribe insulin until quite late on, but it gives real control when tablets fail. Note that Metformin will only ever reduce blood sugar a bit. Gliclazide can have a big effect if the pancreas is still working fairly well