Archive for the ‘Metformin Side-Effects’ category

What a Diabetic Needs to Know About Metformin

December 7th, 2011

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Metformin is an oral hypoglycemic agent under the family of biguanides. It is taken by mouth usually at a frequency of one to three times a day, for the immediate release form. On the other hand, the extended release form is taken once in the evening with meal.

By Robert P. Tracy

The action of this drug is to help regulate blood glucose by preventing glucose production by the liver. It also helps increase the muscles’ and fats’ sensitivity to insulin to increase their uptake of glucose. This way, a controlled amount of glucose can be attained without increasing the insulin produced by the pancreas.

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This drug is known to be the first line of treatment for diabetes mellitus type 2. It is especially beneficial for overweight and obese people because unlike other anti-diabetic drugs, Metformin does not prompt significant weight gain. It can also help lower one’s LDL and triglycerides — both contribute to the development of complications of this disease like cardiovascular problems, which are actually the leading cause of death among people with this condition.

According to studies made involving Metformin and other anti-diabetic drugs, Metformin reduces diabetic complications by up to 30% compared to insulin and sulfonylureas (another type of oral hypoglycemic agent). Also, unlike other drugs used to treat this disease, Metformin does not produce hypoglycemia especially if taken singly to treat affected people.

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However, even with these benefits, Metformin still has the tendency to produce side effects. Although these side effects are relatively rare, they may prove bothersome and may prompt the discontinuation of the therapy. If given some time though, most of the medication’s side effects will eventually go away on their own. Those that do not can easily be treated at home or by a medical provider.

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Most of the accompanying side effects are mild including nausea, vomiting, bloating, loss of appetite, gas, and diarrhea. Often, decreasing the dosage of the drug is enough to get rid of these problems. It is then important to inform your physician about such problems to help you avoid or lessen these side effects.

A more serious side effect of this drug may also occur, however rarely. It is called lactic acidosis, the presence of too much lactic acid in the blood. Blood tests will typically show the presence of lactic acid above 5 mmol/L, which results to the decrease in blood pH, below 7.35. This is a type of metabolic acidosis which requires immediate medical attention.

Lactate is produced when the cells start producing glucose anaerobically. The chemical is directly produced from pyruvate, a substance derived from glucose after being broken down. If the production of lactate surpasses consumption and the buffers become exhausted, accumulation of lactate in the blood occurs.

Most cases of lactic acidosis occur in patients who are already exhibiting significant health problems like multi-organ malfunction. Patients who are at higher risk for lactic acidosis are sufferers with heart, kidney and liver problems. Patients with systemic infection and folks with advanced age are also part of the list. If you have these problems or have a history, it is important to inform your physician in order for him to take necessary precautions for your case.

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Metformin, Learn The Basic Information on Benefits and Side Effects

December 5th, 2011

Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 is a nightmare that will haunt anyone that it sets its eyes on for life.

By Robert P. Tracy

There is no cure for this chronic disease, making the battle against it a lifelong task. Since there is no effective cure for it, knowing what you can do to help yourself is important to prevent the development of complications and secondary diseases. Ignorance is something this world can live happily without, and with today’s way of life, knowing is everything. That is why it is important to arm yourself with the knowledge of this disease, and in this article you’ll know more about the first line of treatment for diabetes which is Metformin.

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Metformin belongs in the biguanide class of oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs). This drug classification is also called anti-hyperglycemic drugs or anti-diabetic drugs, the latter raising the eyebrows of some experts. When diet and exercise prove to be insufficient in controlling this disease, Metforrmin or other OHAs are prescribed. (Metformin was discovered in the flower of a Frnch Lilac flower. Click here to read about it.)

Different classes of OHAs work in various ways to control the blood sugar. But due to Metformin’s inability to cause hypoglycemia (blood sugar below normal level), many doctors tend to go for this drug over the others. As a matter of fact, metformin was found out to be the most prescribed oral hypoglycemic agent last year.

This drug is very favorable for overweight and obese patients because unlike other anti-diabetic drugs including insulin, it does not cause obvious weight gain. It also helps in decreasing the levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, which helps in preventing complications like heart problems.

Common side effects of this drug involve but are not exclusive to the gastrointestinal system. These include nausea, vomiting, loose bowel movement, bloating, gas, and decreased appetite. The majority of the cases experience gradual decrease of the side effects. Home tips and tricks to prevent these side effects may involve taking the drug with meals. Some people who have been on the medication claim that maintaining a low carbohydrate diet can help prevent some of these side effects. Adjusting your eating habits to coincide with your medication can also help.

A serious side effect of this drug rarely occurs. It is called lactic acidosis, which is caused by the accumulation of lactic acid in the blood stream. This results when glucose production is done anaerobically by the body. In lactic acidosis, the excess pyruvate derived from glucose is directly converted to lactate. These are released from the cells into the bloodstream where they accumulate over time. A value higher than 5 mmol/L and decreased blood pH levels are indications of this phenomenon. Mortality is very high if it is not treated within 24 hours. Signs and symptoms of lactic acidosis include rapid and deep breathing, altered mental status, vomiting and abdominal pain.

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Before taking the medicine, it is important to inform your physician about any other drugs you are taking to prevent fatal drug interactions. Relay also information about past or present health conditions such as heart attacks, congestive heart failures, heart ischemia or infarction, liver cirrhosis, fatty liver, hepatitis, kidney problems, systemic infection, and other health problems that are related to decreased oxygenation of the cells.

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Metformin Side Effect, Are Bone Loss “Scares” True?

December 1st, 2011

human_skeletonWhile there are numerous discussions regarding Metformin’s list of often-undocumented adverse effects, there is no doubt that questions regarding “Bone Loss” remained unclear.

By Robert P. Tracy 

Claims that the use of Metformin does not result in bone loss; hence claiming that diabetics should not be worried about such potentially injurious outcomes. On the other hand, there are accounts regarding individuals that have suffered from Metformin-related bone degradation. In part, such accounts once again reinforce the notion that Metformin does have a myriad of often-unlisted yet clearly dangerous side effects. In order to determine whether Metformin does contribute to bone loss, a well-rounded review of existing evidences must be done.

In terms of scientific findings, there have been studies conducted in the past that seemingly support the notion that Metformin is devoid of any bone degrading effects. In fact, several studies suggest that the anti-diabetic drug actually has favorable effects in terms of bone preservation; as diabetics are generally more prone to the effects of bone loss this seems to be a fairly favorable effect. Furthermore, even recent studies conducted on test animals have provided support for Metformin’s protective capabilities. However, as mentioned beforehand, there seems to be an abundance of conflicting findings as well; some studies have linked Metformin use to increased rates of bone degradation.

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To expound, due to Metformin’s intrinsic homocysteine elevating effects, it is highly possible for the bone to be detrimentally affected. Various research have highlighted that high levels of homocysteine often precede bone loss; moreover, with excessive homocysteine levels, one may also suffer from a number of concerns ranging from heart diseases to brain abnormalities. A number of firsthand accounts seem to provide support to the notion that Metformin does increase one’s susceptibility to bone loss and its harmful implications. While these may not be given as much worth as scientific studies, such stories still bring a sense of concern for those taking Metformin.      

It is clear that even by assessing both sides of the debate regarding Metformin’s role in bone loss, a straightforward answer cannot be achieved. Possibly, questions regarding the negative effects of Metformin on the bones would never cease even in the years to come; in addition, conflicting scientific findings may also increase, leading to further confusion.

Thus, instead of being concerned with such Metformin-related risks, one should become an educated patient, and continue to explore other ways of maintaining proper blood glucose levels. Aside from shifting to another safer anti-diabetic medication, taking herbal remedies can support the weight loss aspect of managing your blood sugar levels.

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Herbal supplements are often very supportive and are generally safer than synthetic variants, and are often known to be just as effective. Many supplements like Diab-X are known to have no adverse effects, and no consumers have not noted about any form of hidden or unlisted ill reactions. Many homeopathic MDs suggest a side-by-side program with anti-diabetic drugs.

Only one conclusion, work with your doctor and ask endless questions, ”…trust and verify!”

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