Metformin - a Generic Form of Glucophage, for the Treatment of Diabetes

Metformin (generic for Glucophage) is one of the oldest prescription medications used for Diabetics and their sugar control levels. Metformin is for type 2 diabetics (non-insulin dependent). There are many other types of sugar control medications on the market but sometimes the older form of treatment isn't so bad. I am not a physician however I do take Metformin to control my Diabetes and suggest that if you are diabetic or think you may be diabetic consult with your physician before taking any kind of treatment for Diabetes.

It is to remember that there is still a chance of side affects from Metformin even though it is an older medication. Some patients have developed a life-threatening condition called Lactic Acidosis while taking Metformin. If you have any symptoms of Lactic Acidosis such as weakness, increasing sleepiness, slow heart rate, cold feeling, muscle pain, shortness of breath, stomach pain, light headedness or faint while using Metformin then seek emergency assistance.

If you are diagnosed with Diabetes and the physician suggests Metformin as a medication for treatment there are some things you should let your doctor know immediately.

Let the physician know if you are allergic to metformin, have kidney disease or kidney failure and if you are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis. Let the physician now of all drugs that you may be allergic to before starting a medication plan with Metformin. Also let the physician know if you have or have ever had liver disease or heart disease. Discuss treatment with Metformin with your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing a baby.

If your physician does prescribe Metformin for a treatment program be sure to take your Metformin with a meal unless told otherwise. Some Metformin is taking with your evening meal once a day and some are taking twice a day or 3 times a day also be sure to follow the physician's instructions on taking your Metformin. Metformin pills should not be crushed or chewed and not broken in any way before taking.

Once on a program of Metformin it is necessary to keep track of your blood sugar levels by taking a reading every morning, and before bed and also before a meal and 20 minutes after a meal. Sometimes your physician will have you also take a blood sugar reading 1 to 2 hours after eating a meal also.

Anytime a Diabetic becomes ill or injured or suffers from an infection it may be necessary to temporarily adjust their diabetic medications. Contact your physician immediately, if you become sick, injured or has an infection.

Know what low blood sugar is like and the signs so that treatment can be taken immediately. Low Blood Sugar can be felt as hunger, headache, dizziness, confusion, irritability, weakness, tremors, sweating, fast heartbeat, sometimes even seizures and fainting can occur. Always keep a source of sugar available. There are some over the counter forms of glucose pills and gels that can be carried and if those are not available a glass of orange juice, candy bar or milk followed up with a slice of cheese or lunch meat for the protein. Be sure to monitor the blood sugar levels every 15 minutes if experiencing a low blood sugar attack.

Remember, do not self medicate or self diagnose any disease or take any medication not prescribed by a physician. If you believe you may be diabetic see a physician as quickly as possible for the testing needed to determine what the medical issue is.