metformin reaction -- lactic acidosis?

KensRosie · 09-16-2003, 12:59 AM

Hey gals,
I was on met for 2 years when I had what appeared to be a toxic reaction. I got very sick feeling, like the flu, and my lactic acid levels were going way too high. They took me off of it (that has been 2-1/2 years ago), but now the docs want to try me on it again. The doc feels that my reaction was not "true" and that I did not have lactic acidosis or anything like that....that I was just on too much tea, coffee, and caffeine, and was not drinking enough normal fluids and that the diuretic effects of the tea & coffee were causing an imbalance (causing me to have diarrhea, etc.) and that all of that whacked my system out.

What do ya'll think? Actually, I would like to try the met again but am somewhat nervous about it because of the lactic acid levels before.

Thanks,
Rose

Jllrdh · 09-16-2003, 01:06 AM

Hi there,
If you do start it again, just start out real slow. I'm sure your doctor would put you on the lowest dose, and if you drink enough water you should be fine. Just make sure he follows you closely.
Good luck
Jenny

KYBluegrass · 09-16-2003, 02:34 AM

I didn't see anything in your post, but have you ever had problems with your liver enzymes or kidney function? Did the doc do test to check these things before he put you on it before? I don't mean to fire off a bunch of questions at you, but I'm just curious. In cases where you have impaired liver or kidney function, met can cause some problems. Start off slow, and if the doc has not tested you for these things before you start, get them done as soon as you can. Better to be safe than sorry.

christyz · 09-16-2003, 12:21 PM

I agree...try dosing up very slowly and make sure you eat and drink enough to keep your hydrated and to keep your sugars up.

I also agree with KY, that you shouldn't begin the meds until your liver and kidney functions are determined to be adequate.

KensRosie · 09-20-2003, 02:59 AM

Hey gals, thanks for your responses....yes, I have had issues with liver enzymes in the past. I have always been told that it is just from having a "fatty liver." However, this last round of bloodwork a few months ago, since I've been low carbing, my liver enzymes were perfectly normal after years of being not right. How would that be affected if I go back on the metformin?
Thanks
Rose

christyz · 09-20-2003, 01:02 PM

That's something only your Dr should be guessing. You could also try getting another opinion before trying a second trial of met. I highly suspect that your Dr wouldn't be willing to try again if there was any chance of a LA reaction...so perhaps you might want to try a trial period as long as he is willing to monitor you closely. Arrange to be in contact with his office immediately should anything not feel right. All the best.