Long-Term Effects of Metformin

Metformin is a prescription medication available for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes (those who are not dependent on insulin). Metformin helps to control levels in a patient's blood sugar, and is available in tablet form for oral consumption.

Dosage

• It is important that you take Metformin exactly as it was prescribed. Do not skip or miss a dose of Metformin. If you forget to take your dose, take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If you are within four hours of the next dose of Metformin, then only take the scheduled dose. To help avoid unpleasant side effects, take Metformin with or just after a meal. Do not double up on your dose of Metformin, this could cause an overdose.

Overdose

• Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. You may have signs of low blood sugar, such as hunger, headache, confusion, irritability, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, tremors, sweating, fast heartbeat, seizure (convulsions), fainting or coma. An overdose of Metformin may cause a life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis. Get emergency medical help if you have any of these symptoms of lactic acidosis: weakness, increasing sleepiness, slow heart rate, cold feeling, muscle pain, shortness of breath, stomach pain, light-headedness and fainting

Side Effects

• Some effects of Metformin can be long-term, and others can be fatal. It is important that you seek immediate medical care if you experience breath shortness, swelling (any part of the body) or sudden gaining of weight after taking Metformin. Seek emergency care if you experience flu-like symptoms (fever, chills or aches/pains) after taking Metformin as well. A few side effects that can also be long-term are more mild, but require that you inform your doctor. They include headache, muscle pain, feeling weak and dizzy. Stomach pain, gas and diarrhea are also mild side effects associated with Metformin and can also be long lasting. Call your doctor if you experience these or any other side effects as a result of taking Metformin, as he may wish to adjust your medication.

Lactic Acidosis

• Lactic Acidosis is a long-term condition which is life threatening, and is sometimes developed as a result of taking Metformin. Symptoms of Lactic Acidosis include feeling cold, or a sudden increase or desire for sleep, slower than usual heart rate, feeling short of breath, sudden pain or cramping in stomach, feeling weak, light-headedness or feeling faint. Seek emergency medical care if you experience any of these symptoms. Older adults may be at a greater risk of developing Lactic Acidosis.

Warning

• Certain medical conditions can cause serious long-term complications as a result of taking Metformin. Do not take Metformin if you have a history of kidney disease or are currently being treated with insulin for diabetes. If you have liver disease or heart disease, make sure your doctor is aware before taking Metformin. It is also important that you do not drink alcoholic beverages while taking this medication.