FAQ About Metformin - Page 7

CaraMia886 · 10-07-2005, 12:48 AM

I'm new, my doctor just put me on Metformin, after my former OB-GYN basically called my symptoms crazy for years and just said I wasn't 'motivated' enough to keep the weight off. Essentially, I became a diet-obsessed teenage girl, counting every calorie and nearly developing a full-on eating disorder. I found out four days ago that I wasn't imagining things. What a relief! Anyway, is it ok to be on Metformin for a long period of time? Like for life? As I go on to make other changes in my life, like for example if I want a family, will I have to go off of it?

Does insulin resistant mean I'm diabetic, or hypoglycemic...or what? I read some of your articles, but when people look at me, as confused as I am, and ask, so are you diabetic or hypo, what do I say to them?

Thanks...

Cordially,
Carrie

christyz · 10-08-2005, 12:31 PM

Quote:

Anyway, is it ok to be on Metformin for a long period of time? Like for life? As I go on to make other changes in my life, like for example if I want a family, will I have to go off of it?

I will likely be on some dosage of met for the rest of my life. In my case, my insulin problems started when i was 115 pounds, and my family history is terrible for diabetes, so my Dr and I are comfortable with the medication long-term. But it is a decision that each of us make individually according to our own situation.

Diabetics are safely on the drug long-term and studies are looking good in that regard for the people that need it.

Quote:

Does insulin resistant mean I'm diabetic, or hypoglycemic...or what? I read some of your articles, but when people look at me, as confused as I am, and ask, so are you diabetic or hypo, what do I say to them?

I tell people I am PRE diabetic. IR is a pre-cursor to diabetes, which is why we have to get it under control.

Hope it helps!

CaraMia886 · 10-14-2005, 12:46 AM

After about 2 weeks on it, I feel much better. Just don't take it first thing and take it with food. Try to eat complex carbs rather than simple..

christyz · 10-14-2005, 02:06 PM

Glad to hear it, Cara!

FYI everyone: I added a new study to the FAQ thread at the end:

Metformin May Help Diabetics with Heart Failure
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_27427.html

sabreena · 10-25-2005, 06:33 PM

does this mean that if you get to you loose weight and go down to your normal or ideal weight than does the diabetes type 2 goes away? and you dont have to be on metformin?

christyz · 10-25-2005, 06:39 PM

Quote:

does this mean that if you get to you loose weight and go down to your normal or ideal weight than does the diabetes type 2 goes away? and you dont have to be on metformin?

Keeping hormones at bay is a pretty personal thing and it depends on a lot of external factors like diet, genetics etc. I have been able to lower my dose thanks to weight loss, but my Dr and I agree that with my family history I will likly be on it long term - until at least menopause. My Insulin issues started when I was 115 pounds as a teen, so weight wasn't a factor in my developing IR. As a result, while I have been able to cut back my dose with my activity level and IR diet, my IR is always here and I will likely have to stay on some dose of the drug to control my hormones.

Some ladies can keep their insulin controlled with lifestyle alone, some cannot. It's a matter or trial and error to see what will work for each of us individually.

Hope it helps!

christyz · 10-27-2005, 10:36 AM

To my understanding it is the ACUTE part that increases risk. The study listed talks about how pre-existing medical conditions are a significant risk factor for LA, but even so, the risk is around .0003% of met patients, so it is still very rare.

Your asthma is controlled, you have regular bloodwork and thorough follow-up, and you've on the medication long term like myself without any problems, so it might be worth asking about next time you see your physician, but it certainly isn't something I would worry over.

All the best!

MelodyGrace · 11-17-2005, 12:20 AM

Hi Everyone!

I am a thin cyster -- not IR. I am starting Met (750mg/1 a day for 2 weeks then to 1500mg a day) -- starting it tonight.

Just had a question. If I am not IR or diabetic, then will it have any effects since I don't really medically (other than the PCOS) need it? Not sure if how I am asking makes sense.

I have so many hopes for Met ... not sure how it will work for me, but hoping for the best and fast! LOL Who ever wants it to take long, huh?

christyz · 11-18-2005, 12:44 AM

I answered your question in response to your other post, so hopefully you got it!

When do your Met s/e occur?

Good luck Melody!

nourania · 12-14-2005, 02:54 AM

God Bless You!!

christyz · 12-14-2005, 06:16 PM

Added a new link on metformin and lifestyle and some new info on a clinical trial for metformin.

thismama · 12-21-2005, 07:08 AM

Anyone know if it's okay to start Met while breastfeeding? While possibly pregnant?

Thanks.

christyz · 12-21-2005, 09:59 PM

FAQ's #7 & #8 have studies on both of those topics. That info combined with a talk with your Dr. should help you decide.

Good luck!

EverUndefined · 12-30-2005, 12:56 AM

Supposedly Metformin is not meant to be used long term correct?
My Dr took me off of it..i have lost 20 pounds, but i was afraid i'd gain weight.
I did gain a little and i'm trying to make sure i stick to the low carb diet cuz i kinda swayed. I work out as well.
If my periods stop does that mean i need to go on Metformin again?
I am so eager to get rid of this weight and i don't get to get backtracked.
I just want to get rid of it!
I'm nervous that i won't be able to lose weight without Metformin

MsSuziQ · 12-30-2005, 01:07 AM

Metformin is actually meant to be used long term. I will most likely be on Met for the rest of my life, as I am insulin resistant. It's very safe for long term use.