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The Question
10/16/09 05:34 PM

"I've heard that diarrhea is sometimes an ordinary occurrence with Metformin. I can't afford to miss work. Anything else I can take? Or add immodium?"
Asked By: danacsings  
Category: Oral Medications

Background Info Hide
Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes July 2009. Numbers aren't awful- highest number so far was 200..but numbers in morning are never below 110 and are usually around 126-140...avg 133 in the mornings, and 140's 2hrs after dinner. My low sugar threshold seems to be 80. Dr. gave me Rx for Metformin for 500mg 2x day. I currently check my bg when I get up and 2hrs after my biggest meal (typically dinner). I am afraid to take it because I am one of those that, if a medicine can cause diarrhea, then I usually get it. I can't even get through a 10day course of antibiotics. I keep reading how people say they experience diarrhea on a daily basis on Metformin. I cannot, absolutely cannot miss work because my meds give me the runs. I do not see me being able to take this med. Has anyone ever tried taking Immodium D with the metformin? It seems most of the people who have posted say they have gastroentestinal problems. It seems that just that fact would throw your blood sugar off also.

Expert Answers (1)

10/22/09 07:20 PM

Hello,

Thanks for bringing your question to dLife.

Stomach upset and diarrhea are side effects of the oral diabetes medicine Metformin. Each person reacts differently to this medicine.

If you are particularly prone to stomach upset and diarrhea, then Metformin might not be the medicine of choice for you. Discuss your concerns with your doctor. He or she can prescribe another diabetes medicine that does not produce stomach upset and diarrhea.

Also see a registered dietitian fabout establishing an individual meal and exercise plan to help control your blood glucose (sugar). They sometimes work better than diabetes medicine in controlling blood glucose levels.

Take care.

Answered By: Liz Quintana
Accreditations: EdD, RD, LD, CDE
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Community Answers (4)

11/10/09 01:05 PM

Consistency is def. the key. I had major issues with Metformin and when I switched to Janumet recently. Once my body adjusted and I stay on schedule, I don't notice a thing. I did also carry an industrial size of immodium with me which helped survive being at work. I did notice sometimes that when I ate a meal with a higher fat content such as a juicy steak and potatoes, my body didn't like that being on the Metformin. If your still having the gastro issues after being on Metformin for a few weeks, let your doctor know!
Answered By: irish2at
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11/01/09 06:08 PM

CONSISTENTCY is key. Metformin causes me the stomach upset and diareah but if I take it consitently I do not have issues with it. Consistency, consistency, consistency that is what being diabetic is all about.
Answered By: barbarah
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11/01/09 05:22 PM

I take metformin and it did cause stomach issues for me in the beginning, but if you take it consistenly the side effects go away after your body gets use to it. I would give it a try and if you have issues take the immodium with it. It is a great drug and has helped me tremendously and if it doesn't help you, you can always get your doctor to try something else. Hope this helps! :)
Answered By: allisph
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10/30/09 09:35 PM

I would give Metformin a try. Different people react differently. I noticed the slightest difference taking Metformin for the first couple days or so. Now I really don't notice any difference in bathroom habits from before I started the medicine. You can always decide to stop, but on the other hand it might work well for you.
Answered By: martha162
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*** All information contained on dLife.com is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Our Expert Q&A is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.

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