Should he take metformin if he isn't eating?

[Fiskfamily]

My father in law takes 4 x500 metformin tablets daily but has not been eating due to flu. My mother in law is worried about giving him his medication if he hasn't eaten. I have said she shouldn't stop it without the gp advice but I can't contact them until tomorrow. Can anyone advise?

 

[ally1]

call nhsdirect

 

[this is too difficult two]

My inclination is no, but wait a bit longer and many people who actually know will be here.

 

[this is too difficult two]

Oops sorry ally missed your post.
Ally takes metformin.

 

[Jojorid]

I think he should be encouraged to eat and regain appetite , will help with the flu , but consult the diabetic nurse or GP with the meds

 

[Patricia21]

I agree with Ally,I would ring for advice.
Metformen can be hard on the stomach,and we are advised to take it with food.

 

[dawnmc]

Personally I wouldn't worry too much over missing a couple of days. Metformin on an empty stomach is not a nice experience.

 

[NoCrbs4Me]

I don't know the official answer, but I would keep taking it if it were me.

 

[Daibell]

Hi. If it's Metformin SR (Slow Release) I wouldn't worry about taking it. Metformin can be started and stopped without issues (I speak as an amateur); it's a good safe drug and largely reduces glucose output from the liver a bit.