What is Metformin (sp?)

My doc gave it to my mother and I remember seeing it as a med option on FF and some people here take it. I just want to know what it is supposed to do?

She said it is for her diabetes. I just worry about my mommy.

Re: What is Metformin (sp?)

it is for diabetes but its also used off label for women who have pcos. It helps them ovulate

Im taking it and its pretty rough on ur belly. U have to make sure u cut out certian foods ie carbs and sugar.

Good luck for u mom!!!

Re: What is Metformin (sp?)

Metformin is primarily for diabetes. My DH is on Metformin for diabetes and I am on it for PCOS.

Re: What is Metformin (sp?)

Primary Use:
Diabetes: decreasing the amount of sugar produced by the liver and increases the amount of sugar absorbed by muscles cells. Also lowers triglycerides in the blood

Secondary Use:
Polycystic ovarian syndrome: lowers androgen levels, insulin and cholesterol. Which makes your ovulation more regular, therefor increases fertility and in fold decreases risk of GD and miscarriage.

FYI-It can cause some GI upset.

Re: What is Metformin (sp?)

I have PCOS & take it to lower my androgen & insulin levels. There's also been research that shows that Met significantly cuts the rate of miscarriage in women with PCOS that are ovulating. I stupidly took myself off of it years ago, but recently went back on again after I had 2 early pregnancies fail in a row (just over 5 1/2 & 7 1/2 weeks). My OB/GYN feels that in my case I really need to be on it regularly until I get pg again...

Re: What is Metformin (sp?)

I'm on Metformin now--its for Diabetes and PCOS (which I have both)

As the other said, it helps with your sugar & insulin levels.

Just let your mother know that the main side effect of it---stomach issues. Diarrhea, terrible gas, and nausea. Everyone is different, but basically it can hurt your tummy alot when you are first getting used to it.