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Metformin and kidneys

H

hanadr

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I am on Metformin 5 1/2 years now and have stage 3 chronic Kidney disease. (this is symptom free and apparently not serious) Everything I read about Metformin says it's safe, but contra indicated for people with kidney problems. My BG conrol, is excellent and I eat low carb. I have dropped the Insulin stimulatiing medications that I was taking ( Gliclazide and Starlix). What I'm trying to find out is how much damage in the long term does the Metformin do? I do have blood pressure issues too.
My GP knows I want to get off as much medication as possible.. I am on 3 x 500mg metformin per day and I'm going to try to drop it down to 2. He's told me that whatever I do I mustn't drop the Metformin.
I don't understand why. Anyone got any ideaas?
 
I don't really understand this guy, first he tells you your control is too good and you need to accept that you're going to disintegrate and be on insulin soon. Now he tells you on no account to drop your metformin. Any chance of a second opinion? Clueful nurse? See a different doctor when he's on holiday?
 
You know your body, all i would suggest is maybe try and if it had an adverse effect get back on it as soon as possible and say, ok but at least i'm not on all that other stuff!!!

You know your body, but do be very careful.
 
Thanks for your kindness folks!!
 
There is more likelihood of lactic acidosis with metformin and kidney disease.

Some medics think the lactic acidosis thing has been grossly overstated though. Would a consultant opinion help?
 
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