Weight loss is an imperative part of type 2 diabetes control. Glucophage, a type of oral prescription medication, is a type 2 diabetes drug that helps improve insulin. One advantage for type 2 diabetics is that the insulin control offered through this medication can assist in weight loss overtime. The medication isn't intended for weight loss in people that don't have type 2 diabetes. Glucophage also carries the risk of side effects. Report any adverse effects to your doctor immediately when taking this medication.
Function
Losing weight is just one of the benefits of taking Glucophage. Glucophage helps manage blood sugar levels. According to the Mayo Clinic, this type of medication insulin function by decreasing the amount of glucose released from your liver. In turn, you will experience weight loss overtime, along with regular exercise and a healthy diet. This medication is not intended solely for weight loss.
Effects
The Mayo Clinic explains Glucophage can offer other health benefits aside from blood sugar control and weight loss. The medication may reduce blood triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins, better known as LDL cholesterol. Glucophage doesn't carry the risk of weight gain that other prescription medications do. According to Drugs.com, your doctor might recommend a vitamin B12 supplement, because Glucophage has a tendency to deplete this nutrient in the body.
Risks
Glucophage should not be used if you have liver problems, heart disease or type 1 diabetes. According to Drugs.com, the most common side effects of this medication are headache, muscle pain and mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Glucophage poses a risk for lactic acidosis. The condition is marked by an extreme amount of lactic acid in your body. Symptoms include extreme fatigue, heart beat changes, dizziness, breathing difficulties, numbness in your limbs, nausea, stomach cramps and muscle weakness. Seek medical attention immediately, as lactic acidosis can be fatal if left untreated.
Glucophage can also interact with other medications, including diuretics for weight loss. Drugs.com recommends that patients check blood sugar often while using this medication to determine its efficacy.
Prevention/Solution
Glucophage does have the potential to help you lose weight, but shouldn't be your only method of weight control. At the same time, medications shouldn't be your only source of type 2 diabetes control. The Mayo Clinic explains that losing weight through traditional methods can actually reduce the need for prescription diabetes medications. You will also likely need to take other medications along with Glucophage for type 2 diabetes.
Member Comments