Metformin Side Effects
Virtually all medications, including metformin and glucophage cause side effects of one sort or another. Some people experience severe reactions to medications, some experience little or no discomfort. That’s why it is very important that once a person begins to to take multiple medications he/she needs to inform their doctor of their doing so and relate any side effects as a result of taking the medication. In regard to Metformin side effects, they are minimal and usually do not require any additional attention.
Metformin side effects and Metformin ER side effects, have been carefully studied and evaluated in clinical trials on people with diabetes. Groups of people that were administered metformin were compared to groups of people who did not receive metformin. The findings were compared and the results recorded. Metformin side effects among regular users are as follows:
- Headache- 5.7 percent of the people experienced this
- Indigestion- 7.1 percent of them experienced this
- Nausea or vomiting- 25.5 percent had this to occur
- Diarrhea- 53.2 percent were affected in this way
- Weakness- 9.2 percent of the people felt this way
- Abdominal pain- 6.4 percent of them experienced this
- Gas- 12.1 percent experienced this
Individuals that were given Metformin ER seemed to have less side effects due to its longer acting formula. The most common side effect of those that were given Metformin ER was Diarrhea. 9.6 percent of persons experienced this. Nausea and Vomiting were the next most common side effect at 6.5 percent respectively.
Even though metformin side effects of these medications overall were of a minor nature, there are several side effects with metformin that you must consult your doctor about. They include, but are not restricted to these serious symptoms as a result of taking metformin:
- Chest pains
- Signs of high blood sugar- blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, increased hunger, thirst and frequent urination
- Signs of low blood sugar- irritability, loss of coordination, seizures, confusion, difficulty speaking, shakiness, dizziness, severe hunger
- Signs of allergic reactions- itching, unexplained swelling, hives, trouble breathing
- Signs of Lactic acidosis- stomach pain, muscle pain, feeling cold, feeling weak, slow irregular heartbeat
Metformin side effects experienced by some persons tested in the group have not been proven 100%, the result of taking Metformin.
1 to 5 percent of persons experienced these side effects as a result of taking metformin:
- Nail problems
- Flushing
- Pain in the muscle
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Changes in Taste
The information in this article is provided for informational use only. In no way is it intended as a substitute for professional advice of any kind. Although metformin side effects should be taken seriously this site assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material.