All About Metformin

Everything you ever wanted to know about Metformin. Metformin is the most commonly prescribed Type 2 Diabetes medication worldwide. In this video, I cover how metformin works, benefits, side effects, costs, and how it fits into the management of Type 2 diabetes.

[@SavingMyFoot]

Great Info!!! You're absolutely right, I was started on Metformin when I was first diagnosed too!! After losing about 35 lbs I've been managing my diabetes with an with EKG (Eat healthy, Know your numbers, Get off the couch) for the past 10 years. Again good info!!

[@sugarhighchannel]

SavingMyFoot That’s incredible! Congratulations on the improvements!

[@dannyeugenewaits9486]

Today 08/20/2024 is my day 1, metformin er 750mg, atorvastatin, 20mg, I'm very nervous and worried I'm going to be sick for weeks, I wish I planned my life's health choices better.... here goes my new life's choices, becoming a healthier person and take my health serious.

[@PeggyGrant-lr4by]

This is my day too I'm also nervous

[@skyeblue5669]

¤▪︎¤ Doctor put me on 1,000 mg twice a day..I so scared to take due to all the side effects..2,000 mg sounds as if to much to take..

[@ipanema-l5v]

I'm a pharmacist in Korea and this is so easy and fun explanation. I think using ur words to patients would be helpful to make them understand. Thanx!

[@monetpiedad7611]

Been taking Metformin for the past 17 years . I've read many articles about it and this is the first time I learned that it controls the liver to produce more sugar and it doesn't really cause my hypoglycemia. That could be why my doctor removed glimiperide and later vildagliptin and still maintained me on metformin + insulin only. You know I've been to many doctors and none of them exlained to me how my prescribed medicine works. I have to do my own research everytime.

[@sugarhighchannel]

monet piedad I’m a big believer in my patients knowing what their medications do. That’s way, they feel more like part of the team instead of just being told to take a med. Things just seem to work out better that way.

[@KittysKnockout]

For 17yrs medical industry professionals have been taking some lavish exotic vacays

[@200Nora]

I am a Home Health Nurse (home visiting), and in my experience, most Drs do not explain and educate; they only prescribe. One of my duties is to go over the list of medications, address patient knowledge and educate with encouragement to ask questions.

[@robertstancliffsr9575]

Yes, I have been taking metformin for 35 years for type 2 diabetes. I was also prescribed glimepiride. I noticed early on that a very small bit of glimepiride would quickly lower my blood sugar....so, when I take glimepiride I break off a small piece and I learned to be careful with glimiepiride and other similar drugs. Not a problem,, just a learning process...After doing that for a while i can make my morning blood sugar be within a few points of my target........Sometimes, if I have only low carbs and low sugar I will just take the metformin and no glimiepiride......works ever time for me, but just taking the pill never would....It would have often went way too low.....I have had 35 years of experience,,,,,,,I'll be 80 soon.....Had no noticeable side effects from metformin until the last year or so when I have had constipation. Don't know if I should blame that on metformin, or just on getting old. It can easily be fixed with a stool softener...........

[@randyc8242]

Thats because they need to make money, no time to talk to you. Either the clinic has quotas or the doctor themselves choose greed over patient needs. My doctor comes in for 5 minutes and walks out most every time. Even on the supposed annual exam.

[@jennifercarpenter2779]

I wish I would have found all this information 3 yrs ago when I was first diagnosed with type2 diabetes. I am learning a lot. I do take metformin I take it twice a day morning with breakfast and with dinner. I have also been taking Ozempic for an month now. So I just found you today and soaking in all your information. Thank You

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for your feedback. Glad you've found it helpful!!

[@maryanneviola752]

I am fine with taking Metformin ER 500 mg, but when my dr increased the dose to 1000 mg, I had too many GI issues, so she dropped me back down to 500mg. My blood sugars are still higher than I would like. I see her again next month, I'm probably going to have to go on something else, but I don't know what. BTW, I love your videos. I'm learning a lot from you!

[@yennyjen5742]

How did you app go? Are you still taking metformin?

[@702boi]

Been taking metformin for 3 years. I started with the twice a day routine with an a1c of 10.9 when I was diagnosed and the diarrhea was a nightmare. I would be at work and then poop myself. Thankfully the ER metformin I get from my new doctor is much better.

[@naseemeisa3973]

As an endocrinologist myself i can easily say: you are a great teacher 👏👏👏

[@naomikotey9462]

Very very well explained I started taking the metformin since the year 2002 only side effects is diahorrea

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for your feedback. Glad you're doing well.

[@robertstancliffsr9575]

Mt only side effects are, after taking metformin for over 30 years. It might be causing constipation...or,...... is that being cased by the fact I am now almost 80 years old? Might as well blame the metformin, it gets blamed for almost everything....(still taking 2000 mgs daily)... I think the metformin longevity side effect may be happening...I can live with that one....

[@yennyjen5742]

@@robertstancliffsr9575wow! 30 yrs taking metformin? I was put on it bc I am prediabetic but I am stubborn and don’t want to take meds. How have your a1c been? Stable of going up and down?

[@stephaniehyde2862]

You explained so well and you making learning fun. Excellent job leep it up

[@bba2]

Thank you for the great video. I had been on Metformin for years w/o any trouble. At first 1000MG in the morning and later 1000MG both morning and evening. I tested in the mid teens with an an A1c under 7.0 as long as I watched my carb intake and consequently I got to rarely testing and my med folks were happy. About a year ago things took a "left turn." Gi issues developed to explosive diahrea disasters (thankfully only at home) of having to disrobe in the bath tub and blood glucose levels hovering around 145. Pioglitazone (Actos) 15MG was added, but blood glucose remained the same. I discontinued Metformin for a brief, period gaining GI relief, and then tried to "sneak up" on Metformin with the extended release formulation, Metformin ER, titrating 500MG, then 1000MG, then 1500MG, and back to 2000MG. GI issues are less frequent, but still occur, and blood glucose remains around 145 and higher with an A1c increasing to 7.6 most recently. I'm not happy and my GP does not seem as concerned as I would like him to be. Curiously, if I fast for 20hrs (no meds either) I can test 90-115 or so. There are those on KZbin who feel at an A1c of 5.4, damage to vital organs has started. On my present meds with diet and moderate exercise, I can't seem to drive my blood glucose down. (I don't think once diagnosed T2 I've been hypoglycemic although as a teen and younger man I'd get the shakes w/o eating and seek a sugar fix to cure them.) I'm 75 and would hope to live out my life not needing dialysis or incuring vision loss, nephropathies, etc. I apologize for the length of this. I wonder might you have any suggestions? Many thanks.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thank for your comment! At an age of 75, one might not need to be as aggressive with A1c; less than 7% is a reasonable goal, but pushing down into the 5’s with additional medication could be risky and wouldn’t likely offer enough benefit to justify it. Your Actos is at the lowest dose, so you doc may opt to increase it to 30 mg (assuming you have no history of heart failure). Another class of meds that might be worth asking your doc about is the SGLT-2 medications. I have a video explaining what those meds do. Hopefully you find it helpful. Best wishes!

[@donneone]

@@sugarhighchannel Wow, I'm really impressed! This Dr actually responded to a Commentor's question with useful info. Bravo!! Much respect and appreciation. You earned my subscription.

[@denisekiser9925]

I enjoyed this video!!! Thanks!!! I can't large dose of this. When I was on 2000 a day it jacked my stomach up for hours in the morning. I just recently started Glipizide.

[@Soleil5291]

Denise Kiser be careful with glipizide! It may lower your sugars to dangerous levels. Even the lowest dose brought me down to the 50s. Be careful and check often!! Good luck 💕

[@suneelmadani3215]

I am on Glimepiride and it works well. Not heavy on stomach.

[@wdc1040]

The stomach issues usually go away in a few days. When I upped my does from 1gram to 2grams, my stomach was queasy. On day three, I decided that if the issues didn't resolve by the next day, I was going back to 1 gram. Luckily for me, my body adjusted that third day. To work on methylation issues, I have reduced my metformin back to 1 gram and added TMG.

[@DigVM21]

As someone starting in the Diabetes world, this is the video I needed to watch 🫶🏻

[@qormi1000]

Well explained. Thank you. I actually understood everything.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for your feedback! I'm glad you found it helpful.

[@PJean3]

tHANK YOU. You've eased my fear for it.

[@geoffgreen4013]

Thanks for the explanation. I've been through the noisy side effects and seem to deal with it well now. Unfortunately I've had to move on to injecting my stomach area. Your video covering that was very helpful.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for your feedback! Glad you found it helpful.

[@kayandrapaul8197]

Very informative video, I am being put on metformin so definitely helped me! Thank you!

[@mickdunne981]

I was with my Doctor the other Day he took my bloods a month ago and he got the results and he told me that my sugars were high so he prescribed me metformin i have to go back in 3 months time when he will take my bloods again.I have subbed and liked the video greetings from Ireland😊

[@gerdnaschenweng6124]

Thanks for the good explanation. I am probably one of the lucky ones without any side-effects. For me I lost a ton of weight and Metformin (or perhaps Januvia I am taking) is not causing me to be hungry.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Gerd Naschenweng Glad it’s working out for you! I had to describe it as “weight neutral“ (which Januvia also is, but that’s a future video...) because that’s what we see in clinical trials. But on an individual basis, I’ve actually had a quite a few patients have the same results as you. 👍

[@lisawalls1007]

I take them both also no problem with them

[@PaulWilson-nh6lb]

Very good explanations on how each drug works! Good to way up all options!!

[@lorenemeier139]

After 2 years of use I developed round-the-clock, flu-like side effects including nausea, headache, fatigue, body aches, diarrhea, and gas. It drove me back to bed. Stopped and started 3x over 6 months. I went thru the side effects each time before I was sure it was Metformin and my doctor accepted that it was, too. I found doctors are hesitant to discontinue Metformin. Metformin lowered glucose meter readings best after meals with moderate carbs. I typically eat low carb meals and found that "benefit" counter-productive for everyday but nice for holidays. Lowered my a1c one tenth a point every 3 months at 500mg twice a day.

[@kenbobca]

Thank you! I am over weight and need knee replacement for both knees. I have already lost 27 pounds in 2 months. My dietician Doctor recently put me on Metformin and a Kito diet. My goal weight is 288 or a BMI of less that 40 so my Orthopedic Doctor can start on my knees. It's not a bad diet.

[@Iampowerful8]

I was diagnosed with diabetes 10 years ago. I was told that my pancreas was not producing enough Insulin. That my pancreas need to be bombarded to be reactivated or to produce more Insulin even though my Insulin was not effective anymore. Very confusing set of information. I just felt doomed. Your exposé gives me more light. By the way my doctor he doesn't care to give explenations, he just dismiss my enquiries with his know it all attitude.

[@sugarhighchannel]

I’m sorry to hear you had this experience. In my opinion, patients that ask questions are the best patients. It’s good that you’re taking an active interest in knowing as much about your diabetes as you can. That’ll help you reach success. Never stop asking questions. 👍

[@williamhoward9493]

I itry Metformin for 6 weeks and had to give it up as I suffered cramps & diarrhea the whole time! Put on Jardiance and doing fine.

[@kerrim5063]

Very informative! I’ve been on Metformin for about 5 years, but never really knew how it worked. I remember has some GI symptoms when I first started it, but they went away after a few weeks. Haven’t had any issues since then.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for your comment! I'm glad you found it helpful and I'm glad you're doing well.

[@queenofhearts293]

Hi! Do you have a video that covers all the insulin drug classes? I found the one specific to sulfonylureas and now I have this so that’s great but would be so helpful to see all of them in relation to one another. Love your videos and i’m going to recommend them to all my nursing school friends as we’re learning diabetic medications right now. You’re great at explaining in a way that everyone can understand. Thank you!

[@sugarhighchannel]

I do!! Check out my channel for a video on long acting insulins and another video on short acting insulins. It’s pretty much everything I wish I knew while I was in PA school. Thanks for your kind feedback and I’m really glad you found it helpful.

[@alexanderpoplawski577]

How can we even know he is a real doctor without having a stethoscope around his neck, like all the others? Jokes aside, I like this video very much. Solid information delivered in an entertaining way.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Best comment all week, haha! Thanks for your feedback!

[@BenSkyLakewood]

What does it matter if the information is accurate.

[@monetpiedad7611]

Very good explanation! I understood and I appreciate this way way better than the literature provided inside the medicine box. Can you talk about Sulodexide vs Aspirin next time and Amlodipine vs. Telmisartan? Also, Toujeo vs Tresiba. More Power!

[@sugarhighchannel]

monet piedad Great ideas. I already have one planned covering and coming up for Tresiba and Toujeo (and will throw in Lantus, Levemir, and Basaglar for good measure). Also planning on covering the importance of ACE-I/ARB meds like Telmisartan, but can certainly cover amlodipine, too (it’s in a different med family). Great idea covering the use of aspirin; I’ll admit that I’ll have to read up on Sulodexide, as it’s not available here in the US so I’m not as familiar with it. But stay tuned! More to come!

[@ruthdaisley9063]

GAS and BLOAT. These are my # 1 issues. Pretty embarrassing at times. Reminds me of the importance of PRAYER when I’m in company with others.

[@garethdrain1479]

So is t good or bad?? It all goes away after a few weeks. I know because im on it now for 3 years. I live in the UK. Very lucky get my medication free.

[@atech2011]

Thank you! This was so helpful and makes diabetes less scary through education

[@GD.1031]

Oh how I wish I could take it! It's so helpful for PCOS, but sadly, it made me severely sick both times we tried, so I had no choice but to stop. It helps a lot of people I know, and I'm not gonna lie- I'm envious of their GI tract! Diabetes is scary, but your videos are so informative, fun, and upbeat, and learning more about this disease has been less depressing. Thanks for all your hard work! That burping liver was the highlight of my day 🤣

[@robin-sk2cc]

Did you try the extended release, a 500mg dose in middle of your dinner? If not try it

[@mumairtanvir]

Very Helpful Video! I am just 32 with BMI 26. Hard to believe that I am recently diagnosed with TYP 2 diabetes Hb1AC touching 9.3. My doctor has prescribed me 1mg/500mg Glimepiride + Metaformin twice a day. Do you think it is wise to start with such a combination considering all the side effects of glimepiride? and what it is your take on switiching to KETO diet to reverse diabetes as most of the pro-keto advocates pitch low carb diet as the only natural cure of diabetes.

[@NannyOggins]

Many thanks, you have allayed some of my doubts about taking this. I hate drugs and have managed to avoid them until now but have just been put on this. I feel relieved that the horrible gastric problems are common and now I understand why I dare not leave the house! Probably chose the best time to be diagnosed as C 19 has reduced my social life to zero anyway! Hopefully the symptoms will subside in time. I’m subscribed.

[@novypam]

Very well explained..

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thank you so much 🙂

[@BenSkyLakewood]

Great job and cutely done

[@marthavalero1959]

Very good. Please continue doing the videos.

[@aundrearose1842]

I have never had the common issue of diarrhea with Metformin, actually I have the opposite problem of constipation and I hate it. But the Metformin I have no issue with. Started on 500mg twice a day, now on 1,000mg ER twice a day. Ozempic & Basaglar. I wish I had this problem sometimes, I feel like the constipation is making it hard to lose weight. I have lost 50 pounds though, due to low carb diet, some walking, and my meds. I still have about 75 lbs to lose still, but I'll take it! :-)

[@sugarhighchannel]

That's amazing progress! Congrats!!

[@robertstancliffsr9575]

I've been taking metformin for over 25 years, mostly 1000mg twice daily. Never had any side effects and now at 78 I'm hoping the research on metformin as a longevity drug proves to be true,...........Update..now I hear metformin can prevent long Covid. I have never had Coved, long or short, might that be because of the metformin?

[@theowl3756]

This is a good explanation about how metformin works by reducing the sugar produced by the liver. It makes more sense than the other explanation that metformin pushes the sugar into the cell. I think the confusion started with the term "insulin resistant"....The issue is too much insulin being around......I just cannot follow "insulin resistant"........LOL

[@22tankman]

I've been a blood donor for many years and my Hemoglobin has always been between 15.9thru 16.7 but after being on Metformin 1000mg 2x a day since August 2022 it has gone down from 16.7 to 14.3. I've noticed I don't have the stamina I normally have either. Could Metformin be causing this?

[@obfuscatid]

I take metformin ER to reduce side effects (loose stool)... especially helpful when you try to increase recommended physical activity/exercise but have to quit early because of loose stool.

[@BDizzleMySchnizzle]

Thanks for the info. Very informative.

[@barbaragermain3713]

Been on Metformin Extended Release for over 3 years. I think it is a great medication for me.

[@beastrace81]

great video. I was just prescribed Metformin 20 days ago and these side effects are very annoying. I am hoping they go away soon. I cut down from 2000mg to 1000mg metformin a day because of it.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for your comment. Glad you found it helpful.

[@barbaragermain3713]

Metformin Extended Release... much easier on your body. 👍

[@melanieblanton3792]

I take Metformin ER 500mg one per day in the middle of my evening meal. I've taken it for 3 months on two different occasions. My A1C has continued to go up with it both times. It's now 9.1. My Dr is adding Rybelsus along with it. I have IBS and I do have more flare ups and stomach pain on Metformin, but I'm kind of getting used to it now or at least know what to expect.

[@lyndabrown3402]

Have you ever read the old book Sugar Blues? Great history of sugar and it's economic and political impact.

[@vitaminsonaplate]

Enjoyed the explanation ... I take it with Insulin for type 1 ...stops my sugar spiking and dropping fast ...

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for your feedback!

[@michaelcampbell-young4347]

I’m 91 and still farting about, {intended} . Your critics are so narrow minded I’m surprised they manage to make it through the day. Loved the article. Ive been on Metformin for some years now and all the side effects are there to some degree or another. But , thats life kid. Thanks doc

[@monetpiedad7611]

I rewatch your videos once in a while and this one about Metformin is my favorite. Now I have another question, this time, about Neuropathy and Metformin. I've been taking Metformin for about 17 years now and besides my bad blood sugar control for about 14 years, maybe I can attribute my neuropathy to Metformin. It was only lately when I complain about this pain on my feet and hands that I am also prescribed B complex vitamins although my doctor mentioned it won't make a difference anyway I insist she prescribe me with at least Mecobalamin. I'd like to hear from you if I can still stop my neuropathy from progressing and if it will really help taking B vitamins. How does B viamins help? Can my nerves be repaired/grow again? Some of my toes feel numb already and a little insect bite or a little scratch on my legs would take several weeks to heal maybe 6-8 I had to put antibiotic ointments and it always leaves a black mark that doesn't disappear until 2-3 years. Does regular massage (a few strokes every night) help delay further destruction of my nerves on hands and feet? What else can I do that does not involve taking any drug?

[@sugarhighchannel]

Hi Monet, sorry for the late reply, I missed the notification that you left this comment. It’s pretty well-established that severe vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neuropathy, but the data is mixed on whether taking B Vitamin supplements will help improve diabetic neuropathy. A few small studies have shown some minor improvement in numbness and tingling with B vitamin supplementation, but larger reviews multiple studies have suggested that it doesn’t really make much difference. If your blood glucose has been high for a long period of time, that’s much more likely the culprit. Taking B vitamins at a reasonable does shouldn’t cause any harm, but I can’t promise that he will bring any benefit. Slow healing is more related to circulation issues than neuropathy. In either case, getting your blood glucose back to normal and keeping it there as long as possible is the best thing to keep it from getting worse and give it a chance to improve.

[@wdc1040]

I had Neuropathy a few years ago (pre Metformin). Per my doctor, I couldn't process B vitamins properly. He started me on a prescription B vitamin and I soon switched to Jarrow B-Right vitamins. The key ingredient was a methylated form of B-12. The neuropathy went away in two weeks and never recurred. I now use a different form of methylated b-12, but I know B-Right fixed my neuropathy.

[@monetpiedad7611]

@@wdc1040 Thanks for sharing I wil check this out.

[@jggimi]

Your timing was perfect for me. Newly diagnosed T2 on April 1 and started on metformin then. I've had a bunch of the common side effects, and expect a repeat when the dosage is increased. The weirdest one for me was asthenia.

[@sugarhighchannel]

I'm glad you found it helpful. Hope to see you at the next video (which I happen to be working on right now...)

[@candyalexander2196]

Read up on vitamin b12 while on metformin

[@jggimi]

@@candyalexander2196 thanks! Will be sure to have it measured as part of my next screening.

[@tamiramos5873]

I don't have PCOS nor Diabetes but I am expecting a prescription of Metformin any day now. I told my doctor that I wanted to try it for insulin resistance - even though I am not even sure if I have it - but I do have a feeling that I have NA Fatty Liver. I don't have a lot of time to wait for things to happen. I am no spring chicken. I just looked at the results of my blood test from last week - I had a metabolic panel done. My glucose is 93 and all of the tests within the panel were in the normal range except for whatever an Anion Gap is. I had a 14. I Googled it but I don't understand what it is and how to fix it. By the way, I am 53, 228 pounds, and 5'4. The only other medication I take is Lisinopril/HCTZ 50mg and I added OTC supplements like zinc, D3, K2, low dose aspirin, and fish oil.

[@200Nora]

There is a test to learn your insulin status; it is called HOMAR IR. Ask for it!

[@edwardgrenke6417]

Are you a guitarist? I am a diabetic and re-educating myself. Thanks PA Dude!

[@sugarhighchannel]

Hi! I do indeed play guitar and piano, but more as a hobby for myself. I’m certainly not good enough that anyone would ask me to play in public. Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@lyndabrown3402]

Being t2d for 25 years met for in is the best I've taken. Before it I lots of problems with low blood sugar.

[@989someguy]

I had horrible side effects from metformin. The common GI issues were the most obvious, and that was alleviated some with taking the extended release. However, I was experiencing severe anxiety and mood swings. Even to the opint of very small things would just send me into a rage (and I'm normally a very very calm person). I was even taking anti-anxiety meds at a medium strength dosage (it's about as much as I could tolerate) and it had little to no impact. As soon as I stopped taking metformin, within 2 days, my anxiety and mood swings came to a screeching halt. After 2 months, I tried to take metformin again, at a much lower dose, and on the 2nd day, it all came roaring back. I haven't taken it since that day.

[@hyper_tech]

Can i take metformin once every 3days ? Secondly if my sugar level is ok can i stop taking metformin ?

[@THEPAPASMURFTHEOG]

when i first starting taking metformin, i got stomache cramps and bloating. overtime it went away and i am fine now.

[@yennyjen5742]

Is there a minimum dose we could take to lower blood sugar in prediabetics? My dr prescribed me 2000mg a day.. seems too high of a dose for me. My numbers are not too bad

[@ruthannhewlett6632]

I take Metformin and right away found that if one doesn't eat with it, it means many bathroom trips....diarrhea. My husband and I both had T-2 and so we ate the same and his FBS was always lower. Since he has passed away, and I have moved and do not eat as well as I used to, I am having a terrible time with high FBS. I was only instructed to test once a day. I am really concerned that my organs will be causing problems b/c of the high bs. I count carbs,but it doesn't matter if I eat more carbs or less. So, it is a constant worry. I have called a couple times now asking what I can do, but my dr. just said she wants my testing to be 90-120 when I get up. It just won't be happening! I have an appointment this week, so am praying I will get some kind of solution. Thank you for this info.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for sharing your experiences. Hoping you and your healthcare provider find a good plan that helps you reach your glucose goals. He/she may have already done this, but just in case, consider asking if they could check that your pancreas is still making adequate insulin. The fact that low carb meals aren't making a difference would make me wonder. Best wishes!

[@robertstancliffsr9575]

If it helps you to better understand and control your blood sugar do the test as many times as you want. I test 4 times a day and that is a big help. If you know what your blood sugar reading is you will better understand what to eat and not eat, and when to take your prescription drugs.....it quickly becomes easy................you know what is happening to you better than anyone else..........

[@monetpiedad7611]

@Sugar High, I would like to ask about Generic medicines. Metformin has a lot of brands and I lean towards the cheaper ones. I discovered the cheapest one in a Generics pharmacy recently but I notice that my diarrhea has recurred. It was a side effect 17 years ago when I started the medicine. It was gone after maybe a year or two until recently. What is your opinion of the generic brands if there are in the US? When you write a prescription, do you include the brand name? The prescription I get on paper is Metformin 500mg (no brand name), Toujeo , Telmisartan , and before when I used to take it, Galvus 50mg. So it's mixed in my prescription- generic only or brand names. Is it true that branded medicines are better and safer? Some says that branded and generic medicines have no difference, only the price. Thank you again and more power!

[@sugarhighchannel]

I don't normally specify a particular brand when prescribing metformin because most people prefer to go with whichever generic version is available at the lowest cost at their preferred pharmacy. And, thankfully, most people do about the same with one generic manufacturer compared to another. When someone does notice a difference (like what you're describing), though, then we'll try experimenting with different manufacturers or the controlled release to see if they do any better. Branded vs. generic meds are usually about the same with some exceptions (like thyroid medications, for example), but branded medications usually are less susceptible to recalls for contamination.

[@jml9582]

My LFT’s are pretty elevated. On a strict diet to help the liver. Will have been taking 2k of metformin for a few yrs and the Ozempic has been added. Will taking both drugs hurt my liver further?

[@fatihedinc2127]

Is metformin a longevity drug?

[@ricardorivera3909]

I’m shootings for a 6 after watching his videos, it’s possible to minimize the amount of meds only if we move around

[@kehax]

I started Metformin in July. Increased up to 2000mg quickly, but it was horrible. Diarrhea constantly. I lowered the dosage down to 1000mg per day and I still have diarrhea, but now its maybe every second day. At this rate I new to ask for a prescription on toilet bowls.

[@NYCisland]

I've done well with 1500 mg/day ER Metformin for last 12 years - no side effects until now with mild diahhrea. My A1C is between 6.4 and 6.6 for many years. I'm not willing to pay $180/mon (with my insurance) for Oxempic.

[@mtunofun1]

My employer’s heath provider uses CVS Caremark for its prescription plan. I pay $7 for one pen.

[@lisajoyyoung]

Did you write the background music too, or just the intro?

[@sugarhighchannel]

lisajoyyoung Just the intro during the titles is me. Everything else I get from Epidemic sound. Takes too long to record my own music for every vid. 😕

[@johnj873]

Good Day sir. Awesome videos. Currently finishing my P2 year in pharmacy school and we are tackling DM very short and quickly, but I really am wanting to know more from a professional stand point. I sent you a Facebook message on messenger. Enjoying all of your videos and thank you for being an advocate for DM

[@rstumbaugh43]

Is it common for metformin to stop working after 1year? My Dr prescribed it to me at the maximum dose, 1000mg 2X day, as soon as I was diagnosed with type 2, and 1year later, it stopped working. The only side effect I had, was dry throat, cotton mouth, and constant loose stool, irregardless of diet, fiber, etc. the Dr then prescribed invokana and actos, and told me to keep taking the metformin, and that I would be on it for life...(even though it was no longer working for me???..)

[@katiejackson7907]

I wish could see you as my doctor. You are personable and informative not to mention cute. But metformin is working for me but yes the pooping. And my doctor changed ir to the Er and my sugar numbers aren't as good?!What's up with that please?! Btw I'm doing Ozemepic with my metformin and any suggestions for me? Thank you so much

[@sugarhighchannel]

The combination of Metformin and Ozempic could be adding together to tag team your gut. If the side effects aren’t getting better as time goes by, even with the extended release Metformin, it might be time to ask your doc if another medication would be more appropriate. Metformin is definitely a good starting place, but there are lots of other options too. Maybe ask about one of the SGLT2 meds. 👍 Glad you found the channel helpful and thanks for your kind words.

[@FireRescue884]

I ate 1 chicken finger on a piece of wheat bread just to take my metformin. I spiked to 176, what the heck am I taking it for🤔 I can just eat chicken or beef with veggies and I stay around 90 to 100 without taking it at all.

[@shadteacher]

Is taking cinnamon safe if I am on metformin?

[@robertstancliffsr9575]

I don't see why not?

[@gamersaurus7929]

This is entertaining. Well done!

[@sugarhighchannel]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for your feedback!

[@monetpiedad7611]

@Sugar High My doctor has just removed Metformin from my medication and replaced it with Linagliptin 5g. This is because my GFR now indicates a severe CKD (Stage 4). Can you talk about Linagliptin? My doctor did not reduce my insulin (Toujeo) dosage, will I be more likely to experience hypoglycemia with the new combination of insuline and Linagliptin? How is Linagliptin different from Vildagliptin? I used to take Vildagliptin 50mg. Is Linagliptin somehow better for the kidneys than Metformin or Vildagliptin? Thank you so much and more power!

[@sugarhighchannel]

Hi Monet, I've been planning a video on these medications for a few months now, but the idea I have for explaining how they work requires the help of some friends. COVID has made getting together a bit challenging but as things start to improve that video will definitely be showing up (hopefully soon). Linagliptan and Vildagliptan basically do the same thing, but linagliptan is easier to use in people with kidney disease because there's no need to monitor the dose. You shouldn't have any higher risk of hypoglycemia with Linagliptan compared to when you were taking vildagliptan.

[@monetpiedad7611]

@@sugarhighchannel Thanks! Linagliptin is 2x the cost of vildagliptin :( I always check for new videos/lessons from you, ' hope to see and learn again from a new one soon. More power!

[@sandyhollis9834]

I’m on time released metformin and I’ve had gastric bypass surgery what I’m wondering is do you know of any studies of time released medication and gastric bypass patients? It just makes me wonder if I’m getting any benefit from taking this medication I’ve seen entire whole capsules come out in the toilet so it makes me wonder if it releases in my system before it can be released out of my body??

[@200Nora]

Most people who have Gastric bypass resolve DM, or what is called go into remission. Ask to be tested, and stay on low carbs with activity. Because if you do not change diet and lifestyle you can get back into DM. However, communicate with your dr for every change you make.

[@fatihedinc2127]

Is metformin fighting for to aging?

[@Megidramon]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but Isn't there a vitamin that is regularly recommended alongside metformin after it's been taken for a long time?

[@sugarhighchannel]

Yup! Vitamin B12 sometimes drops when taking Metformin. I usually advise my patients to take a B12 supplement when using Metformin just to make sure the level stays stable.

[@GandGblast]

My Doctor took me off of Metformin, but then again I am suffering from Kidney damage. She put me on Jardiance and my kidney function has been steady.

[@tomiirone1]

The problem is that the pharmacy give you different brands of Metformin because they think all of them will have the same affects. That's not the case, if you have two different brands of shower gels it doesn't mean that they are going to have the same affect on your skin because each brand has different ingredients in them, that's the same with Metformin, each brand has different ingredients which is why some of them will have different affects from each other and that's the experience that I've had with Metformin.

[@kushijo]

Actually not true. All brands have same chemical structure.

[@hildamelancon414]

Hearing impaired can't hear anything being said can someone please fill me in on what is being said want is best time to take metformin

[@sugarhighchannel]

Hi Hilda. Most people do best when taking metformin after a full meal; it tends to help reduce the side effects. I will look into getting subtitles activated for my videos. Thanks for your comment!

[@wdc1040]

David Sinclair takes his metformin in the evenings and his NMN in the mornings.

[@turywury]

Doctor I’m so confused my glucose was 99 on fasting but my A1C was 6.9 I took my blood at home at night time and I was 107. I still haven’t started the medication yet. I’m new too all this.

[@DAMZ226]

It’s because the A1C is a average blood glucose for three months. So that must mean your blood glucose levels were still high during 3 months

[@200Nora]

Your fasting blood sugar can be normal for a long time like in prediabetes, while your insulin is losing sensitivity and becoming resistant. Once insulin stop working well your blood sugar will start increasing with it. Ask to have the HOMAR IR to learn how much insulin is your pancreas making.

[@michaelgarber6075]

I have been taking Metformin for maybe twenty years.. Recently my doctor has doubled my dosage to 1000 mg twice a day. That is causing me stomach problems.

[@chandershekhar5873]

plz provide subtitles i could not understand video properly

[@pamwillever]

Major diarrhea, even where I have had some really bad accidents. 😢 When I know I am going to be traveling or out of reach of a rr I don't take Metformin the day before or the day of. Therefore I don't feel like I am taking it properly. 😢

[@debbiemiranda7236]

I take the Er metformin. Is it ok to take this with dinner?

[@cherieg-johns1650]

Thank you for the fart 💨 jokes to lighten things up. :) And so much for explaining all of this.

[@200Nora]

I started taking it after I was diagnosed with prediabetes. I am hoping after the next lab, I will be able to stop it. It is not that it is causing problems. When I started, It make me feel weak and tired and my stomach was weird for a while. I started taking it with dinner and things got better because I was going to sleep it off for the most part. I am still working at 66 and being tired and weak does not fit well with my busy life. I am making everything in my power to bring my A1C to the non-diabetic levels, and so far I am succeeding. I even had to lose weight that I did not want to lose, revamp my diet, and triple my exercise.

[@manfat7051]

Hi Sugar High, If I take 2g MetFormin per day, I will have A1C of 6.2%. But if i take 1g MetFormin per day, I will have A1C of 6.5%. Please advise how much MetFormin i should take. Thanks.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for your comment. Only your own healthcare provider can advise you one which does to take. Best wishes.

[@manfat7051]

@@sugarhighchannel i tried to understand if it is worth taking more dosage to reduce 0.3% A1C only. It is said MetFormin has other benefits. i would like to hear your opinion. Thank you very much.

[@MississippiWopGenius396]

I got put on metformin for issues of morning/night low blood sugar (below 50)but on my a1c test I was at the top of pre-diabetes /beginning of diabetes. Also does A1C check if my insulin is low? or how can I check that as well or what should I be concerned or focused on since I'm still tired alot on metformin. I even tried to use berberine instead of metformin- same thing-low energy, and brain fog. It seems like Ive had this low blood sugar problem since I was a teenager(54 now)- i couldnt drink more than one beer without almost falling asleep due to the drop of energy and I'm guessin blood sugar. My whole life I've always craved sugar/carbs and I was 100lbs lighter back 25 yrs ago. The few times I tried a low carb diet decades ago- I never made it past a few days without almost passing out so something is a miss- I cant figure it out. Is it possible Ive been a type one and not known it...I'm really confused on all of this- and this low sugar brain fog aint helpin the matter.

[@200Nora]

HOMA IR is the test to check for insulin resistance. Most Drs will not prescribe it because insurance does not want to pay for it. However, it is the best test for the most accurate diagnosis. The blood sugar can be normal (mine is usually 88 -90sfasting), and your insulin losing sensitivity, which leads many Drs to miss it until it is too late and the patient becomes diabetic. Luckily, I am back in the normal range, but I want to bring it down more to ensure long-lasting success.

[@davespin9034]

I had a side effect not listed, and found others online who also experienced it. It may have to do with the vitamin B12 deficiency it can cause. At night my feet hurt, like millions of ants on my feet. Also my stomach and chest had nerve hypersensitivity. As in just running my fingers against my skin caused pain which should only be pressure. Eventually my legs and hands. I told my doctor and went off of it. Now researching options. Anyone else?

[@johnely5050]

I am taking Diaformin. What is the difference?

[@sugarhighchannel]

Diaformin is just a brand name of metformin that’s available in certain countries. We don’t have it here in the US, but I believe it’s available in Australia, among other places.

[@elisaclouse6655]

Can you do a video on transdermal metformin

[@lorirobbins3990]

Thank you

[@Soleil5291]

Hi sugar high! Could you please consider doing a video on how insulin affects weight gain and weight loss? I have the HNF4A gene (MODY type 1) and I was wondering, since I don’t make as much insulin as I should be- does it lower my BMI? I take 100mg Januvia and 2000mg metformin daily and have an A1c of 5.6 (with a lot of effort.) I eat mostly plant based with some fish/ chicken and steak about twice a week. Truly appreciate your content! Thank you for explaining things on laments terms. It makes me want to learn even more 🧠

[@sugarhighchannel]

Hi Michelle, I like the idea for the video. I’m how do you get to my to do list. Anytime there is less insulin, there is the likelihood that glucose will have a hard time getting out of the bloodstream and into the cells. That includes fat cells which can make it difficult to gain weight if you are insulin deprived. MODY is a bit of a different situation, since the pancreas very slowly and very gradually decreases in its ability to make insulin. If you’re getting by with just Januvia and Metformin, it sounds like you still have a decent amount of insulin production. If, in the future, you end up needing insulin, you might find that there is some initial weight gain. But you may actually not gain much weight, since you are really cognizant of your diet and paying close attention to the details. 👍

[@sugarhighchannel]

Edit (speech to text, ugh...) *I’m adding it to my To-Do list...

[@garymcandrew5850]

I tolerated it for 2 years because it slammed my blood sugar down to below 6. But i couldn't tolerate it anymore and switched nothing has worked as go as it did.

[@kateluvme]

Thoughts on metformin and PCOS?

[@sugarhighchannel]

Since PCOS is very much related to insulin resistance, metformin is usually the first-line medication for this condition. We don't know everything about how or why it works, but it's usually a good place to start

[@JoshuaKevinPerry]

9:18 You'll generally only see Lactic Acidosis in bodybuilders taking mountains of Metformin(3-5grams) and Insulin as they play with their blood glucose to build muscle.

[@gerrylynharvey210]

this stuff makes me sick what else can I take?

[@Mechanix81]

I was on metformin when i was first diagnosed.but I kept getting leg cramps from it.

[@jamiesauerwein8453]

Neuropathy?

[@Mechanix81]

@@jamiesauerwein8453 yes been taking meds for it for the past year now. But as far as the leg cramps go I have not had them since I got taken off of metformin about 5 years ago.

[@dgator3599]

If you can't tolerate regular Metformin, have your doctor switch you to Metformin ER (extended release). The explosive diarrhea will subside. You'll still have it, but not 15-30 minutes after every time you eat. I take 2000mg per day (max dose) and have been for years. I started off with a lower dose but have had to increase it over the last 10 years. I have good insurance and pay $1 for 3 months supply. In the past I was paying $15 for 3 months supply but for some reason, the price dropped down to $1!!

[@ENIAWOOD]

I have used Metformin for the past 8 years and so far so good. I tried Glyburide and Glimepiride and both were not suitable for me.

[@tabetbazzi9372]

Hi can I take metformin in empty stomach Thank you

[@winw4548]

You can if you tolerate it. Taking it after food is to counter the gi side effects.

[@jamorini]

Doc this med seems like it does almost nothing 1 or 2% drop in your hemoglobin A1C over a year is really nothing so why even take it?

[@sugarhighchannel]

When we say a med drops A1c by 1 or 2%, we mean that the A1c drops by 1 or 2 points, since A1c is measured as a percent. So someone with a starting A1c of 9% would probably come down to 7% or 7.5%, and that is a huge improvement. Maybe I should have described it differently because I can see how saying that it “drops A1c by 1 or 2%” can make it seem like we mean a starting A1c of 10% would only come down to 9.98%, in which case you’re absolutely right that it would be pointless.

[@jamorini]

Also I’m new and my fasting sugar was 390 and my Hemoglobin A1C was 11.9. That seems super high to me and I’ve only left my house a few times in almost 2 years and I can’t work. Pretty much I feel like my life is over and I am only 46 years old and constantly exhausted and in bed :(

[@sugarhighchannel]

That is indeed high, my friend. Get in touch with your doc; this can be fixed. It’s gonna be a bit of work, but it’s completely worth it. Your life is absolutely not over. Just gotta claim it back. Best wishes.