Metformin: Encyclopedia II - Metformin - Side-effects

Metformin - Side-effects

The most serious side effect of metformin is lactic acidosis. However, this complication is rare if the contra-indications are followed, as it seems limited to those with impaired liver and/or kidney function.

Phenformin was withdrawn because of an increased risk of lactic acidosis (up to 60 cases per million patient-years). In recent studies it was revealed that, as long as it is not prescribed to patients who are at risk, metformin is much safer, and the risk of lactic acidosis approximates that of people who are not on the medication (Salpeter SR et al 2003).

The most common side effect of metformin is gastrointestinal upset. This includes diarrhea, cramps, nausea and vomiting. In a clinical trial of 286 subjects, 53.2% of the 141 who were given Metformin IR (as opposed to placebo) reported diarrhea, and 25.5% reported nausea/vomiting (source: Drug Facts & Comparisons 2005).

The side effect of gastrointestinal upset can be source of severe discomfort for patients. It is very common when metformin is first administered, or when the dose is increased. The discomfort can often be avoided by beginning and increasing the dose gradually. Gastrointestinal upset after prolonged, steady use is less common. For the relief of diarrhea and intestinal cramping, a small, non-prescription dose (~10mg) of codeine should be effective.

Adapted from the Wikipedia article "Side-effects", under the G.N U Free Docmentation License. Please also see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki