Metformin - symptoms

Saw RE for a follow-up yesterday and I am supposed to start Metformin to control my sugars. My fasting sugars are very borderline and she says it can't hurt. We will TTC naturally (w/the metformin) for 2 more months and then move on to more serious treatments.

I have a fairly whacked out stomach since my ds was born - pushed (vag del) for 3+ hours and my intestines have never really been the same.

I know Metformin can mess with your stomach even more...any words of wisdom on what to expect, what foods to avoid would be most appreciated!

Thanks for all your input!

Re: Metformin - symptoms

I take mine at night and try to sleep thru any side effects. That usually works. I find if I eat fatty food or 'simple' carbs (ie: white bread, rice or pasta) that (sorry TMI) w/in a VERY short amount of time I'm in the bathroom w/ tummy troubles.

I do better when I eat larger amounts of proteins (but not fatty) and less carbs. HTH! GL!

Also, how many pills are they putting you on a day? Did they tell you to work your way up from 1 to 2, etc... my dr had me take 1 for a week or two and then increase it to 2, etc... now I'm on 4 a day.

Re: Metformin - symptoms

Yes I am doing a taper up thing too - 500 MG 1x a day - tapering up to 3x a day one week at a time. RE suggested that I take them all at once before bedtime to minimize any side affects but I have some concern that my sugar levels may plummet - did you ever have issues with this?

I don't even have a glucose monitor handy to check my sugars - should I get one? I tossed all my old diabetes gear after my last preg as I knew i would get new stuff when the time comes...

Re: Metformin - symptoms

I also had to watch my carbs/sugar intake as well. Also fried foods were a huge no-no for me too. Otherwise I was in the bathroom.

I never had to check my sugars when I was on Met, they also never checked once I started it. While I was slightly IR, my RE had me on it mostly because it's supposed to help with egg quality.

Re: Metformin - symptoms

I agree with the above. Take the pills at night. If you do have stomach "issues" immudioum works wonders!!

Re: Metformin - symptoms

Totally agree with taking the pills at night.

I'm fine with most foods. Occasionally, I'll have a problem with salad and too much cheese. What I find is that I can't go too long without eating or I get weak, cranky, can't concentrate -- probably low blood sugar, though I haven't had to monitor it.

good luck!

Re: Metformin - symptoms

You will learn what you can and can't eat with the Met. There were certain things (bread, sugary candy) that made me RACE to the bathroom. Just stick to a low carb diet and you should be ok. I took mine 3 times a day with my meals.