Monsey, New York
A 68-year-old male asked:
I am diabetic, i take metformin at supper time, is it better to take it before i eat dinner or after i eat dinner, with reference how my blood sugars will be 2 hours after i eat when i check my blood sugars. thanks?
3 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in

Dr. Jesse Krakaueranswered
Endocrinology 47 years experience
Guess no different: B"sd
Metformin has little effect on food related rise in blood sugar. It has many and still not well known actions. A main one is to decrease overproduction of sugar by the liver – this is most prominent overnight – so usually advise metformin in PM take with food if upsets stomach. Best - With extended release – entire dose in evening
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
1.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Philip Kernanswered
Endocrinology 45 years experience
Metformin diabetes: Metformin is a long acting drug that affects how your liver handles glucose. It does not matter when you take it, altholugh it is usually taken twice per day (unless you are only on a low dose, eg 500 mg).
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
1.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Jesse Krakauer commented
Endocrinology 47 years experience
B"sd seems like we all agree on this one!
Feb 12, 2016

Dr. Dean Giannoneanswered
Internal Medicine 27 years experience
Shouldn't matter.: Hey Arthur!! Metformin is a slow-acting, regular use medication, so there shouldn't be any difference whether you take earlier or later in the day, and your finger sticks before taking it would have no bearing as it doesn't have an acute effect on your blood sugar like insulin would have.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
1.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Jesse Krakauer commented
Endocrinology 47 years experience
B"sd we seem to be in full agreement
Feb 11, 2016
Last updated Feb 12, 2017
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.