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Stopping Metformin SR

carophie04

carophie04

Well-Known Member
Messages
51
Location
West Sussex
Type of diabetes
Treatment type
Insulin
I have been told to stop taking MetforminSR 2 weeks ago because I have got Lichen Planus all over m y legs, arms upper back and scalp. The first week I didn't feel too bad but this week I feel really unwell, shivering, headachy a bit like a bad dose of flu. My BG level has gone up quite a bit - around 10 - 13 mmol, whereas it was between 6.8 and 8.4max. I am frightened to eat anything incase it pushes my BG even higher have been taking antibiotics for a UTI too. really awful arms and legs ache all over and stomach does'nt feel right. I dont know who to turn to. DN not at DOcs till Tuesday but has no appointments left. What do I do? Start taking the Metformin again in the meantime? Please help someone.
 
Hi. You have to assume that your GP has good reason to stop the Metformin due to the Lichen Planus but perhaps you can discuss the reasons with him and research the web in the meantime but don't ignore the GP's advice. Are you on a low-carb diet that many of us find keeps our blood sugar levels down? Do try to have the best diet you can based on the information on this forum and hopefully you can get an appointment shortly.
 
Hi Carophie04

It's possible that you have got a good dose of flu - those sound like the symptoms, so don't rule it out! Any infection raises BGs as the body's immune system fights it out with the nasties.

Also, antibiotics can affect BG levels, so it may be those affecting yours. They could also be affecting your stomach.

You must eat. Stick to things like eggs, fish and soup if that's all you feel like, but keep some nourishment going in. Also take plenty of fluids, not forgetting plain water.

Sometimes diabetes has to take second place to an illness, so try not to worry too much about your levels, but do keep an eye on them. Don't forget you can call NHS Direct if you feel you need to - they'll help.

As for coming straight off MetforminSR - you could always phone your pharmacist and ask if there are any warnings about stopping taking the tablets. S/he will know, or know where to find out, and will be delighted to help. They know much more about the drugs than the doctors.

As a last resort - if you feel too bad, try phoning for the emergency doctor or get to an A&E, if you can and have one close enough.

I've never seen anything listed about coming off Metformin, but then I've never really looked. Have you Googled "stopping Metformin SR"? You never know!

Hope you feel better soon!

Viv 8)
 
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