Sulfonylureas are a class of diabetes drugs that stimulate the cells of the pancreas to produce more insulin. The hormone, insulin is necessary to transport glucose or sugars from foods into the cells, where it is stored or used to produce energy. Drugs.com notes that these drugs have been used for more than 50 years and help to treat patients with adult-onset or type 2 diabetes without having to inject insulin. Metformin is also a prescription medication for type 2 diabetes. It is currently one of the most commonly used drugs for this disease and works by decreasing the levels of blood glucose and increasing the sensitivity of the cells to insulin. Sulfonylureas and metformin are often prescribed together to treat type 2 diabetes. However, as with all medications, adverse side effects can occur in some cases.
Hypoglycemia
The effects of sulfonylureas and metformin can cause excessively low levels of blood glucose, or hypoglycemia. DiabetesNet.com notes that Diabinese, a type of sulfonylurea drug, remains in the blood for long periods and is prone to causing hypoglycemia. Metformin usually does not cause hypoglycemia if not taken in combination with other diabetes drugs. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include dizziness, weakness, sleepiness, fast heart rate, nausea and excess hunger.
Skin Effects
According to MayoClinic.com some common side effects of metformin and other diabetes drugs that affect the skin include hives, or raised, red itchy bumps; a red, inflamed rash; swelling or puffiness of the eyelids, lips, tongue or face; and general body itchiness and skin rash.
Digestive Effects
According to Drugs.com, adverse effects to the stomach and intestines due to metformin and sulfonylurea drugs are typically common and do not require medical treatment. Digestive upset and effects usually resolve on their own. These effects include heartburn, increased acidity, gassiness, vomiting, a metallic taste in the mouth, loss of appetite and weight loss.
Lactic Acidosis
A severe, but rare adverse effect of metformin is lactic acidosis. According to MedSave, lactic acidosis is a condition in which the blood becomes too acidic due to the accumulation of a substance called lactate. This condition is more common in patients who have other complications and disorders such as heart disease, liver disease and kidney failure. Lactic acidosis can be fatal and requires urgent medical treatment. Signs occur suddenly and include fast, shallow breathing, muscle pain, muscle cramping, weakness, diarrhea and vomiting.
