Metformin. Good or bad?
I have been diabetic for 26 yrs. A1c fluctuates.
I know have good BG control, eating a high fat/protein and low carb diet.
I have just read a couple of articles stating Metformin is dangerous to health? Then other articles stating it’s the best 1st line drug for diabetes??
What do you think?
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'A couple of comments: Metformin comes in an extended release form (XR). That helps control gastrointestinal side effects. It is a really basic, helpful drug for most Type 2 diabetics, especially those willing to work on diet and exercise.
Sometimes people diagnosed with Type 2 who have a bunch of autoimmune conditions will eventually be diagnosed with LADA, which is sometimes called Type 1.5 diabetes. It is treated differently. There are specific tests for this. I reason that if my immune system over many years has attacked my exocrine glands, eyes, and heart, why would it stop at my pancreas? The body's insulin production becomes less effective and eventually stops. If you evolve into LADA management becomes somewhat more complicated. I think that's when you have to ramp up medications. However, to circle back to the original question: Metformin can still be used and is helpful, in my opinion.
I've been on Metformin for 25 years; I'm on a high dose 1000 mgs twice a day. I've haven't experienced any side effects from the drug. It helps me keep my A1C slightly below 7. I really like it because it doesn't give me low blood sugars. It really helps stabilize them for me. I'm also on Mounjaro (high dose 15 mgs) and between the two medications I'm in good shape. I've been on Dexcom for he past 5 years and it helps me measure my blood sugars ... every 5 minutes to my phone. These three thing help me feel in control of my diabetes along with a little exercise (30 to 60) minutes a day on a stationary bike. I've heard people have troubles with the high dose of Mounjaro with upset stomach and constipation (no issues). I'm a pretty large guy at 6 3 and 225 pounds ... people like me probably require higher doses. The Mounjaro is really good with lowering my overeating ... just don't need the second helping ... portion control for sure. I used to have an over-eating problem (emotional).
Back to the main question ... I don't have any issues with Metformin ,, actually like it ... keeps my blood sugars level ... don't drop too low after taking it.
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