Metformin Topic

Candy365 08/27/17
Just started taking Metformin, pre-diabetes diagnosis. I'm noticing some muscle ache in the back kidney area. I expected that and gastroenterologic issues. How long do symptoms last?

Dietitian 08/29/17 replied to Candy365
Hi Candy365, talk with your doctor about the symptoms you are having. Be sure to follow the dosing schedule to lower GI symptoms. Most docs start people with 500 mg, then gradually increase to the standard 2000 mg dose (usually 1000 mg at the morning and the evening meal). But they should have given you a schedule for the gradual increase. Take with food, that will help. And avoid alcohol right now if you can.

Symptoms should lessen after several weeks. Keep a log of these symptoms and do not hesitate to call your pharmacist or physician if you are concerned about the symptoms or if you feel that the pain is worse than what was described to you. Also, if the symptoms seem to get worse over the weeks, then that is also a reason to call your doc.

Metformin is a great 1st line therapy and for many, it can help with weight loss.

Let us know if you have more questions.
Best,
Kathy Isacks, MPS, RDN, CDE

Justjennie 09/08/17 replied to Candy365
I would honestly speak to your doctor about your symptoms. I'm taking metformin as well, not for pre-diabetes but for longevity purposes and haven't had any side effects. You might be taking too high of a dosage.

Skinnygirl1992 10/08/17
I take metformin too

Dietician 10/09/17
Hey Everyone,
In the clinic I work in, I have noticed that responses to Metformin truly vary from person to person. I work with some clients who don't struggle with any gi issues and some who do. One option, if you find you continue to struggle with gi issues (most common include: increased frequency of bowel movements, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramping) is to talk with your doctor about switching to Metformin XR or "extended release". I have had some folks who find this formulation to work better with their body. Best, Joanna (Dietician)

LisaMarie20 01/11/20
i started with 2000 a day , it was to much, and due to my work, i could not spend all my time in the bathroom, plus it felt like someone was clawing at my insides .. i finally switched doctors and was put on extended realease, it worked much better for me

Dietician 01/13/20 replied to LisaMarie20
Glad the extended release is working better for you. Cheers to improved health! Joanna (MyNetDiary Dietitian)

Metformin