Posted by ed_uk2010 on March 21, 2014, at 15:36:21
In reply to Is metformin dangerous?, posted by Lamdage22 on March 21, 2014, at 13:54:16
> My doctor said that if i lower my Seroquel dose i have to test blood glucose because overnight i could get too low glucose and die?
> But is he right?
No, he's not right. Metformin does not ordinarily cause hypoglycaemia (abnormally low blood glucose), and you will certainly not die. Metformin is unusual in being one of the few anti-diabetics not to cause low blood sugar episodes.
Metformin is quite a safe medication. When prescribed and monitored appropriately, serious side effects are very uncommon. It does cause frequent gastro-intestinal disturbances however eg. stomach cramps, especially when it's first started. Also, metformin is not recommended in patients with impaired kidney function. A routine blood test for kidney function (BUN, creatinine, electrolytes) should be performed before starting treatment, especially in anyone at risk of kidney impairment eg. the elderly. Fasting glucose, a complete blood count and other standard blood tests can be performed at the same time, if necessary. Kidney function tests should be repeated every 3-6 months in the elderly, and yearly in younger patients.
poster:ed_uk2010
thread:1062961
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20140307/msgs/1062975.html