A member asked:

What are the side effects of metformin?

10 doctors weighed in across 6 answers
Dr. Andrew Oswari answered

Specializes in Family Medicine

GI symptoms: The most common side effect is stomach discomfort and/or diarrhea. These symptoms usually disappear in a week. There is also a chance of renal failure and you should have your kidney function checked through the blood to make sure there are no problems before you start.

Answered 11/30/2016

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Dr. David Wyatt answered

Specializes in Family Medicine

Gastro intestinal: Are GI based- abdominal cramps, gas, bloating and diarrhea. These can be minimized by taking with largest meal of day and starting at smallest dose and slowly increase as tolerated.

Answered 4/15/2016

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Speak with your Dr!!: Most common side effect is upset stomach or diarrhea. If you can stick it out symptoms will get better and probably go away. Sometimes a lower starting dose is all you need. It can rarely cause a serious electrolyte imbalance called acidosis so you should call your doctor to talk about it. Overall it is usually pretty safe.

Answered 5/11/2017

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Try extended release: Patients who have side effects on metformin often find that they are less if they take the extended release form of the medication. Since this form is only taken once a day it may help to take it at bedtime.

Answered 5/11/2017

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Many, including: diarrhea, bloating, stomach pain, gas, indigestion, constipation,unpleasant metallic taste in mouth, heartburn, headache, flushing of the skin, nail changes, muscle pain Some side effects can be serious. Call your doctor immediately or get emergency treatment if you get: chest pain or rash

Answered 5/11/2017

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Dr. Michael Finkelstein answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

Metformin: is a drug for diabetes and also used for polycystic ovaries most common side effect is stomach upset kidney issues and low blood glucose. but in a monitored setting these are usually minimal

Answered 8/7/2014

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