@jim18 You will note that I wrote: “You might ask you doctor for the metformin prescription.” The doctor can inform him of any side effects and how to titrate into this drug.

I had one bowel movement with diarrhea after my first tablet of metformin 850mg. I then read the instructions on titrating of this drug. Then for 3 days I took one half a tablet (425mg) once a day with breakfast, then for the rest of the 30 day supply one tablet a day. In titrating up to two tablets I took one tablet at breakfast and one half tablet at dinner for 6 days. After that it was two tablets a day.

Extended release was not mentioned. The trial used 850mg tablets and that is what the oncologist followed. I am now paying about $55 for a 90 day supply with my senior discount. Changing to the ER tablets would increase my 90 day cost to about $135 to $160 for 1500mg or 2000mg per day.

I am preparing a response to Marc on why the A1C test may not be accurate for me. If interested look up something on the validity of the A1C with anemia.