Metformin is used in the treatment of Type II diabetes. Brand names for metformin include Glucophage, Fortamet, Glucophage XR, Glumetza and Riomet. Metformin is a prescribed medication for non-insulin-dependent diabetes or adult-onset diabetes. Metformin lowers the blood sugar by limiting the amount of sugar that is absorbed in the body. It also decreases the amount of sugar made by the liver and stimulates the insulin receptor sites to become more sensitive, therefore decreasing the amount of blood sugar within the body. Metformin aids the body to respond better to its own internal insulin.
Strength
Side effects include loss or lack of strength. This may be due to the fact the body is experiencing a lower metabolic rate since the blood sugar in now controlled through medication. The body is used to a higher metabolic rate, as elevated blood sugars increase the body's rate of activity. Tell your doctor if you experience a decrease in your normal body strength.
Lactic Acidosis
Lactic acidosis is another potential side effect from the use of metformin. With this side effect, there are symptoms such as shallow, rapid breathing, diarrhea, cramping in the legs and arms, lethargy and increased tiredness, along with general body weakness. A trip to the emergency room is warranted, as increased lactic acid may lead to a heart attack or even death.
Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugars also have been associated with metformin and include symptoms such as behavioral changes similar to alcohol intoxification, anxiety, blurry vision, hot flashes, confusion, headaches, nausea, increased heart rate including palpitations, nightmares, restless sleep, shakiness and speech slurring. You also may experience numb lips along with a tingling sensation. Your physician needs to be notified about any of these side effects. Having hard candy and emergency oral liquid sugar is therapeutic to have on hand to combat the low blood sugar until you can get help.
Temporary Side Effects
As with many medications, metformin may induce some temporary side effects that are not considered serious unless they continue. The more common side effects include decreased appetite, heartburn, a different type of taste in the mouth almost like a tinny metallic taste, flatulence, stomach cramping, vomiting and loss of weight. They also may include flu-like symptoms, including pain in muscles, weakness and body chills.
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