Desperately Need info about Metformin HCL ER

[franceslee]

My doc recently gave this to me for pre-diabetes.  I'm really nervous about taking it due to side effects an lactic acidosis.....can any one please helpe!!!  I would really appreciate this.  I do have high blood pressure an take lisinopril but other than that I think I'm healthy.  I have had one incident where my liver enzymes were elevated but they checked for hepatitis an it came back negative.  I just want to make sure it's safe for me to take this an maybe let me know what I could experience!!!  Thanks I'm suppose to start my med today.....

[franceslee]

I checked my sugar this am an it was 99.  I did check my sugar aftr I ate last night an it was 141, but I'm not really sure the best way to check my sugar tho.  Can u helpe with that??

[Super_sally888]

Hi,

Glad there's no untoward effect so far.  Generally metformin is well tolerated and quite effective.

in my  understanding the med can take a couple of weeks to reach maximum effect.


What is your normal fasting sugar level?  Ideally your levels should be < 95 (even better if they're in the 80s).

Work on the lifestyle things as well, like low carb diet, being active / exercise and you should do fine.

[franceslee]

Thanks for the help!  I took my first dose last night so far haven't noticed anything, jus a little sleepy but not sure it's from the med.  All the side effects just worry me, anxiety!  Also do you kno how quickly the med starts working???   I checked my sugar this am an it was 99.

[Super_sally888]

Metformin most commonly has gastric side effects, which do improve over tiem for most people.  The other risks are very very low chance and should not be a concern for a healthy person.

MEtformin is one of the first line drugs in helping to treat early diabetes and can be very effective.

It is much more effective if you also work on your diet (low carb and healthy) and exercise regularly, and make sure your weight is optimal.

[franceslee]

Did all the above that you mentioned!  Wanted some personal experiences...

[WaveRider]

If you don't want to take a medication then don't. Working yourself into a frenzy is unnecessary over something that is your choice and decision to make. You should have discussed this your doctor before leaving the office. Read the pharmaceutical paperwork that accompanied Metformin ER. Use Google for more information. Learn and understand the beginnings of side effects that ALL medications have. Learn and know what to do if they occur. Call your doctor when they do.