Opinions on when to start metformin

[anon125]

Patient in her 70s has always been slim.
A1c is now 6.1
Either type 2 or pre diabetic?
On mostly low carb diet.
Follows jenny ruhl books
When should metformin start?
Thanks all

 

[EllieM]

Either type 2 or pre diabetic?

6.1 is at the bottom end of the prediabetic range, but there is nothing to stop her being slow onset T1 / LADA , though I agree at 71 T2 is more likely. (We had a post yesterday from someone whose 78 year old wife had just had a T1 diagnosis.) And forum rules mean that we aren't allowed to diagnose anyway, even if we could, so I wouldn't even say that she's definitely prediabetic.

When should metformin start?

That's really a question for her and her doctor.

She could also try lowering her carbs a bit more if she wants to reduce hba1c without medication? It's really up to her whether she wants some meds, less carbs or is happy to stay at the current level. Also, some doctors are happy to prescribe metformin to prediabetics, others may not be, so I'm not even sure whether metformin is an option here.

 

[Daibell]

That HBA1C level is pretty good and a lot better than mine! Medication may not be needed but normally Metformin can be started as any time as it's very safe with few side effects.

 

[Riva_Roxaban]

When should metformin start?

When ever her GP advises / prescribes it, she starts to take Metformin.

 

[anon125]

Riva, if it was that easy i wouldn't have posted the question.
Some doctors around here ask me what do i recommend re diabetes!

 

[Resurgam]

Riva, if it was that easy i wouldn't have posted the question.
Some doctors around here ask me what do i recommend re diabetes!

The problem is that individuals react differently to the same medication.
I was put on Metformin and Atorvastatin at diagnosis and soon was experiencing a raft of side effects which included explosive incontinence.
Others take the tablets with no consequences.

 

[anon125]

Thanks everyone