Metformin guide - thought this may help some!

altabes · 01-08-2007, 03:46 PM

Hi All,

I was going through some old papers and came across a guide that was given to me when I was first daignsoed and told I should go on metformin. Hopes this helps some of you!

METFORMIN GUIDE

When starting the medication, Metformin, you will be given two prescriptions. The first is for Metformin XR 500 mg and will be for a total of 40 tablets. The second prescription is for Metformin 850 mg and will be a maintenance dose twice a day after completing the first prescription.

Please take the medication as indicated below:

Metformin XR 500 mg by mouth every day for 7 days
Then Metformin XR 500 mg by mouth twice a day for 7 days
Then Metformin XR 500 mg by mouth three times a day until the prescription runs out.

Second prescription: Metformin 850-1000 mg twice a day
Remember ALWAYS TAKE WITH FOOD (low carbohydrate meal or snack)

Most common side effects: nausea, bloating or gas, diarrhea. Side effects generally subside within 3 weeks. Call MD if signs of severe lethargy, severe abdominal pain, severe diarrhea (signs of lactic acidosis, which is a rare side effect and generally in older adults who are diabetic.)

Take medication after a meal and with 6-8 oz of water. Or, you may eat half of your meal, take medication with 6-8 oz of water and then finish eating.

Limit alcoholic beverages (max 2 drinks per day, 1-2 per week, if trying to conceive)

See dietician for consult regarding meal planning
Aerobic exercise 20-30 minutes three times a week (walking is ok)

Please stop Metformin 2 days prior to any scheduled surgery or x-ray dye studies. You may resume the medication 3 days afterwards.

Note: One Zantac or one Pepcid AC 15 to 20 prior to a meal may reduce possible side effects such as nausea, bloating or diarrhea. Both medications are over the counter and do not require a prescription.

Jashobeam · 01-08-2007, 05:05 PM

Wow, I didn't know Pepcid & Zantac would work!