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Side Effects of Taking Metformin

Metformin is a prescription medication for controlling the symptoms of type 2 diabetes. The side effects depend on your age and overall health, and may include digestive and cardiac problems, as well as lactic acidosis, which is a rare side effect that may be fatal if left untreated. Consider these facts from drugs.com about the side effects of taking metformin.

  1. Headache

    • Headaches are a common and minor side effect of taking metformin, and can be treated with pain relievers as directed by your doctor.

    Digestive

    • Metformin may cause digestive side effects including stomachaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation.

    Dizziness

    • Feeling dizzy or lightheaded is an uncommon side effect of metformin that should be evaluated by your doctor.

    Tiredness

    • Unusual weakness of your muscles, fatigue and drowsiness, and a general ill feeling are side effects of metformin that require medical evaluation.

    Cardiac

    • Cardiac side effects of taking metformin include irregular heartbeat and chest pain, which require urgent medical evaluation.

    Allergic Reaction

    • Although rare, allergic reactions to metformin may occur and include symptoms such as hives, itching, shortness of breath, and swelling of the face, mouth or tongue.

    Lactic Acidosis

    • Lactic acidosis is a life-threatening side effect of metformin caused by a buildup of lactic acid in your blood, and requires emergency medical care.

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