When to go on metformin?

[shellysexbomb]

Been type 2 since March 2014 and HBA1C is steadily creeping up. Currently 55mmol. Also have chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Recently read that metformin has a good effect on CLL as in destroys the cancerous lymphs so could be a win win for me. My question is though, in terms of the diabetes, at what point should I expect the DN to suggest it? She keeps telling me I'm fine but I do self test and know that I have lots of highs and lows which worries me. I think she is holding out as once on treatment I will get free prescriptions. Or maybe thats the old cynic in me

 

[Robin101]

Cynicism works well. My DN keeps telling me my results are improving so maybe we can cut back on Metformin.
I am concentrating on exercise and blood pressure for now so keeping Metformin stable is quite key.
Told her I'd let her know when she can change my scrip. And it isn't now!
And before doing anything I'll have a chat with GP.
NHS and local GP are under a lot of financial pressure but they do need to hear what us patients have to say.

 

[Dr Snoddy]

Try asking why you shouldn't be on Metformin. Your HbA1c is clearly in the diabetic range and with CLL you already have enough to deal with. As your HbA1c is increasing whatever methods you are currently using to try to control your blood glucose levels are becoming ineffective and some extra help, even in the short term, might be useful.

 

[DavidGrahamJones]

Currently 55mmol

Her opinion is very questionable because I'm afraid to say you are obviously in the diabetic range, see below. I see from your profile you have already lost 31lbs so far, well done. Wikipedia says "Metformin, marketed under the trade name Glucophage among others, is the first-line medication for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, particularly in people who are overweight."

You need a second opinion, or just a decent opinion, what does your GP say? An HbA1c may not be awful on occasion but could be better. When my HbA1c goes over 47 my GP has allowed me to adjust my diet (it's not just low carb, protein has played a part in my BG levels), but if it's not possible then I expect to be prescribed additional medication.

 

[Daibell]

I think you should press the DN a bit as the NICE Diabetes Guidelines say Metformin is the 1st med to be given when you are in the diabetic range.

 

[JoKalsbeek]

Been type 2 since March 2014 and HBA1C is steadily creeping up. Currently 55mmol. Also have chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Recently read that metformin has a good effect on CLL as in destroys the cancerous lymphs so could be a win win for me. My question is though, in terms of the diabetes, at what point should I expect the DN to suggest it? She keeps telling me I'm fine but I do self test and know that I have lots of highs and lows which worries me. I think she is holding out as once on treatment I will get free prescriptions. Or maybe thats the old cynic in me

You should get metformin when you need it, and want to try it. Don't wait for someone else to suggest it, just take your research with you and make your case. And if it falls on deaf ears, go to your GP, or a specialist, or... Just keep going as long as you need to, to get what you need. Keep in mind there might be side-effects, but then there's the slow-release version to try too. Or maybe just start with that one to be on the safe side.

Good luck!

 

[shellysexbomb]

Thanks everyone. Just asked at what point would she consider it and she said if it gets any higher as its borderline. Mentioned the link with CLL and research and she says my CLL isnt even recorded in my records!! Looked through and found all the paperwork with the diagnosis so has questioned why its not on. My faith in my GP is declining by the day Prescribed the metformin, so fingers crossed I get a 'double result' from it!!!

 

[alf_Josiah]

I have had so much conflicting and bad advice from diabetic nurses that I just nod sweetly and ignore everything they say. If I have a question concerning my diabetes I go to a doctor.

 

[JohnEGreen]

We want metformin!
when do we want it now!

If we can tolerate it that is
And it doesn't make us feel sick
Or give us the runs
And only if we can have B12 supplements as well.