Metformin is an oral medication used primarily to lower blood glucose levels in type II diabetes. Metformin works by lowering the amount of glucose produced by the liver and decreasing the amount of glucose absorbed by the intestines. Metformin is produced in several forms, including an extended release form and as a combination pill with a different type of oral anti-diabetic medication. As with any medication, metformin has side effects, some of which can be serious.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration cites diarrhea, nausea and vomiting as common side effects, along with gas, indigestion, and stomach discomfort. Extended-release forms of metformin cause fewer of these side effects.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is more likely to occur in people taking metformin in combination with other types of anti-diabetic medications. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include feeling weak and shaky, tremors, headaches, cold sweats, confusion, lightheadness and dizziness, and hunger. Eating or drinking something with sugar in it relieves the symptoms. Not treating hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, according to eMedTV.com.
Lactic Acidosis
Lactic acidosis is a rare side effect of metformin, occurring in only 1 in 33,000 people taking the drug, but it's fatal to 50 percent of the people who develop it. Lactic acidodis is more likely to develop in people who drink alcohol while taking metformin. Lactic acidosis is a buildup of acid in the blood that causes a slow or irregular heartbeat, weakness, difficulty breathing, dizziness or lightheadedness and stomach pain, according to Drugs.com. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency, so seek immediate care.
Rare Side Effects
Some side effects occur in only a small number of people, between 1 and 5 percent. About 3 percent of people complain of a metallic taste in the mouth when they start taking metformin, according to the Diabetes Monitor. Other uncommon side effects include flushing, especially of the face, heart palpitations, flu-like symptoms, breathing problems and abnormal stools. In very rare cases, liver inflammation has occurred.
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