Metformin side effects are mild and negligible, provided the drug is
administered in doses recommended by a medical expert. Some of the reported
side effects of metformin are gastrointestinal problems, lactic acidosis,
weight loss, and hair loss. Here's a detailed look at the same.
Metformin (trade name: Glucophage) is an oral therapeutic drug,
promoted for controlling blood sugar levels within the normal recommended
range. Formulated from the plant Galega officinalis (common name: French
lilac), the popularity of metformin for treating diabetes dates back to the
1950s. By then, it was found to be the only drug that did not have any adverse
effects on the blood pressure of diabetic patients, which was not the case with
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| Metformin Hair Loss |
other anti-diabetic medicines. Today, it is commercially sold under different
brand names.
Metformin is usually prescribed with other insulin-related medicines for
treating hyperglycemia. It is to be borne in mind that metformin is only for
those patients, who are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or non-insulin-dependent
diabetes (not for type 1 diabetes). The major benefit of administering
metformin is that it does not cause hypoglycemia symptoms when taken alone.
However, metformin side effects may be manifested in patients who have taken
this drug in a higher dosage, or in conjunction with other medication.
Side Effects of Metformin
Health experts are of the opinion that metformin helps in lowering
cholesterol and triglyceride levels, thus reducing the complications of
cardiovascular problems among diabetic patients. However, the long-term side
effects may be present in patients who have an underlying kidney disease, liver
disease, or heart disease. Other than these, the side effects of metformin are
rare if it is advocated under the supervision of a qualified physician. Here is
a list of the adverse health effects that metformin can have.
➤ Digestive Problems
Gastrointestinal discomfort and other indigestion-related problems are the most
commonly reported adverse effects of metformin. Mild diarrhea is observed in
approximately 53% people, who have taken metformin for diabetes treatment,
while about 25% patients complain of nausea and vomiting.
➤ Lactic Acidosis
Taking metformin in a concentration that exceeds 5,000 mg can lead to overdose
symptoms in adults. A sign of metformin toxicity is lactic acidosis, which is
caused by the accumulation of lactic acid in the bloodstream. A patient with
this condition is treated therapeutically with sodium bicarbonate injections.
➤ Effects of Overdose
Toxicity of metformin causes abdominal pain, drowsiness, vomiting, and elevated
blood glucose levels (or hyperglycemia). In this condition, immediate medical
attention is necessary to remove metformin from the bloodstream. Fatal cases
following metformin toxicity are rare, but do occur.
➤ Weight Loss
Some patients taking metformin for diabetes report loss of weight. Some studies
say that metformin does not have any significant weight-gaining effect.
However, there isn't a conclusive evidence stating whether metformin actually
affects one's weight or not.
➤ Hair Loss
A less commonly occurring side effect of metformin is thinning of hair, or hair
loss. If one is experiencing any similar sign while on metformin, it is best to
consult a physician about the concern. If metformin is found to be the primary
cause for losing hair, the physician may recommend an alternative medicine for
treating diabetes.
➤ Taste Disturbance
People taking metformin have also reported experiencing a change in taste. Many
people experience a metallic taste in their mouth while on metformin. It is not
a severe problem; drinking plenty of fluids can solve this. However, if it is
getting very bad, see a doctor.
➤ Nose/Throat Infection
Relatively frequent nose or throat infection has been reported by some
metformin users. It is a very rare side effect that people experience. Some
people also experience sinus problems after an intake of metformin. In this
case, see a doctor, he may suggest lowering the dose.
➤ Nerve Damage
People who have been taking metformin for long have developed problems like
nerve damage. Intake of metformin causes deficiency of Vitamin B12, and taking
it for 10 to 12 years may lead to nerve damage, which may be mistaken as
diabetic neuropathy. It needs to be treated before it becomes permanent.
As already mentioned, metformin side effects are negligible, when medication is
taken correctly. After rigorous clinical studies, FDA has approved of the use
of metformin in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Today, it is listed among the
most widely prescribed anti-diabetic drugs. In addition, the effectiveness of
metformin is also studied for treating other medical problems, in which
resistance to insulin is the root cause. Though it is not clinically proven,
researchers have suggested that metformin can be of help in treating
gestational diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and should not be
used as a replacement for professional medical advice.
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