metformin and skin rash

Baz500

Newbie
Messages
4
Type of diabetes
Treatment type
Tablets (oral)
I was diagnosed T2 in September, and placed on 1000mg of metformin. I gradually built up to this dosage over 4 weeks, and initially tolerated it quite well.
After a few weeks, however, the stomach cramps and excessive stomach wind became unbearable and I was placed on slow release metformin. This had little effect on the issue and I was put onto a holding dose of 250mg which I was gradually able to build up to two tablets.
In September, my HBA1c result was 48mmol/mol.
In November the result was 44mmol/mol and my final reading a few weeks ago was 40mmol/mol
Since September I have been on a ketone diet and have lost 2 stones in weight, and my blood pressure has dropped by 20mm of mercury.
However, I have been suffering from a red rash on my forehead, which has gradually spread down my face, and my skin is quite red and dry.
As I am not sure if it is as a result of the metformin or diet, I have decided to, with GP's permission, to stop the metformin in at least the short term.
Has anyone else experienced these skin issues?
 
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DCUKMod

Master
Staff Member
Messages
14,295
Type of diabetes
I reversed my Type 2
Treatment type
Diet only
I was diagnosed T2 in September, and placed on 1000mg of metformin. I gradually built up to this dosage over 4 weeks, and initially tolerated it quite well.
After a few weeks, however, the stomach cramps and excessive stomach wind became unbearable and I was placed on slow release metformin. This had little effect on the issue and I was put onto a holding dose of 250mg which I was gradually able to build up to two tablets.
In September, my HBA1c result was 48mmol/mol.
In November the result was 44mmol/mol and my final reading a few weeks ago was 40mmol/mol
Since September I have been on a ketone diet and have lost 2 stones in weight, and my blood pressure has dropped by 20mm of mercury.
However, I have been suffering from a red rash on my forehead, which has gradually spread down my face, and my skin is quite red and dry.
As I am not sure if it is as a result of the metformin or diet, I have decided to, with GP's permission, to stop the metformin in at least the short term.
Has anyone else experienced these skin issues?

Have you looked at the leaflet in your Metformin package, Baz? I've never taken Metformin, but I understand some people can have skin issues, although, from memory, that usually involved itching.

Sounds like your Doc is trying to help, and hopefully having a rest - whether long or short- from the Metformin will help.

I'll be interested to read how it goes.
 

Baz500

Newbie
Messages
4
Type of diabetes
Treatment type
Tablets (oral)
Have you looked at the leaflet in your Metformin package, Baz? I've never taken Metformin, but I understand some people can have skin issues, although, from memory, that usually involved itching.

Sounds like your Doc is trying to help, and hopefully having a rest - whether long or short- from the Metformin will help.

I'll be interested to read how it goes.

Many thanks.

Obviously the skin issue is minor, if I do require the Metformin to maintain my HbA1c at its present level. Just at the moment, I'm not sure if its the medication, new diet or weight loss that has brought the numbers down. The leaflet with the medication is rather vague.

Baz