Metformin is a commonly prescribed medication that helps to decrease blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. MayoClinic.com notes that it works by decreasing gluconeogenesis, or glucose production in the liver, increasing the sensitivity to insulin of the muscles and tissues and decreasing the absorption of glucose from the intestines into the blood. Along with the needed benefits, pharmaceutical medications may also cause some unwanted side effects. Metformin can cause side effects in some individuals, particularly with prolonged use.
Digestive Side Effects
Drugs.com notes that some digestive side effects of metformin are common and do not require medical attention. These effects often dissipate on their own and in some cases can be reduced or prevented. Digestive side effects of metformin include loss of appetite, heartburn, vomiting, gas, stomachache, a metallic taste in the mouth and weight loss.
Fatigue
According to MayoClinic.com, metformin may also cause fatigue and low energy in some individuals. Other fatigue-related symptoms include weakness, sleepiness and prolonged or severe tiredness.
Lactic Acidosis
MedSafe.gov underlines that taking too high doses of metformin can cause lactic acidosis. This is a physiological condition in which the pH of the body becomes too low due to the buildup of lactate. Lactic acidosis is more common when other health problems such as severe heart disease and kidney failure occur. Symptoms occur suddenly and include fast and shallow breathing, severe muscle pain and cramping, weakness, abnormal sleepiness and tiredness, diarrhea and vomiting.
Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar can be caused by taking too much metformin or by individuals who do not need this medication. Symptoms include anxiety, drunk-like behavior, blurred vision, confusion, slurred speech, cold sweats, pale and cool skin, drowsiness, excess hunger, fast heartbeat, headache pain, nausea, shakiness, nightmares and restless speech. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to loss of consciousness.
Different individuals feel varying symptoms of low blood sugar; it is important to recognize symptoms and treat hypoglycemia immediately by eating or drinking glucose-rich foods.
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