Pharmacist warns metformin users about common side effect that could disrupt everyday life
A pharmacist has given advice to those on metformin who might be struggling with a particularly bothersome side effect of taking the drug.
Metformin is one of the most popularly prescribed drugs in the world as it's mostly used to treat Type 2 Diabetes and there are around 120 million people taking it on a regular basis.
It helps the body process blood sugar when insulin is low and can also help people struggling with their fertility due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Like pretty much any drug it comes with some side effects that a few people taking it are going to experience, and a pharmacist has identified some toilet trouble which people could end up in.
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Raj Patel, a pharmacist who takes to TikTok, explained that metformin 'can cause nausea, diarrhoea or tummy pain', with it being particularly pronounced at the start of treatment 'or if they increase the dose'.
"For many people, that settles as your body adjusts," he reassured those concerned that they might need to make a mental note of the nearest loo's location.
"Taking each tablet with or just after food can really help"
At least that way it's not too far removed from food and if you're somewhere you can get something to eat then there's a decent chance you're also in a location where there's a loo.
Patel suggested that if you notice you're feeling the symptoms which tally with the side effects and planning your day around the next toilet stop then 'your medicine could be part of the problem'.
His advice was to give it some time for your body to adjust, but if the problems persist or keep coming back then you should have a word with your doctor about it.
Given it's a significantly popular drug taken by many there's been a lot of research into the effects metformin has on the human body.
Some studies have indicated that it could help boost the brain's operations in an unexpected health benefit that could enrich your noggin on a level comparative to exercising regularly.
That's no excuse to slack off the hard work, but additional benefits have shown up in research.
Side effects of metformin
Both the NHS and Diabetes UK stress the importance of taking metformin with food to help with any nausea the medicine may cause.
The medicine may also cause vomiting, diarrhoea, stomachache, loss of appetite and a metallic taste in the mouth.
A longer-term side effect of metformin (particularly at high doses) is lower levels of vitamin B12 (which helps keep red blood cells and nerves healthy).
Severe side effects of metformin are rare but they can happen.
If you’re taking it and get a general feeling of being unwell with severe tiredness, fast or shallow breathing, being cold and a slow heartbeat, you must call your doctor or 111 straight away.
The same goes if the whites of your eyes or your skin turn yellow, as this can be a sign of liver problems.
And in rare cases, some patients may have a serious allergic reaction to the medicine. You should call 999 if you display signs of anaphylaxis, such as your lips, mouth, tongue or throat becoming suddenly swollen or struggling to breathe.
Joe Harker
