Side Effects of Metformin

Monday, August 13, 2012

Information on Metformin Side Effects There are a lot of metabolic diseases which have been discovered, and there might be many reasons behind this. One predisposing factor which may actually cause a lot of people to suffer from metabolic diseases is obesity. Being overweight could lead you to suffer from one of the most common metabolic disease nowadays, Diabetes Mellitus Type II. This medical condition may not be treated fully, but it can be controlled. Diabetic patients usually have to take their medication in order to minimize symptoms of hyperglycemia. One of the medications for most hyperglycemic patients is Glucophage, or metformin. It helps decrease the patient’s blood sugar and it also helps in helps prevent the development of cardiovascular complications. However, most patients must need to know about some Metformin side effects. There is no need to worry too much about this though because these side effects may be prevented. Most patients just need to know about them in order to avoid them. In order for you to be safe, you need to learn more about the possible and expected side effects of various medications. For instance, you may as well have to learn more about some of the things which you might be allergic to because sometimes, some patients may also manifest various symptoms of allergic reaction to Metformin. Side effects are considered to be expected sometimes, but not to the extent that they become life threatening. However, one must still be aware of the various side effects of Metformin. In some cases, some diabetic patients may experience lightheadedness, muscle pain, and diarrhea. Some may experience hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, lactic acidosis, and nerve damage. The side effect of this oral hypoglycemic agent may be different in children. Parents need to be knowledgeable enough about the treatment plan and medication of their children in order for them to keep their kids safe. Certain side effects of Metformin may be expected and this includes diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. There are symptoms which most parents have to watch out for though; in which case they may have to consult the physician immediately.

 These symptoms include drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, and difficulty in breathing. This may indicate that the patient is currently experiencing lactic acidosis. Once these symptoms are experienced by the patient, caregivers or the patient must withhold the next dose of the drug. Treatment has to be given immediately. Although these side effects may be present sometimes, it is still prescribed for diabetic patients simply because the benefits outweigh

the risks.