Glucophage for Diabetes - Oral Medication

Although Glucophage can lower your blood sugar, diabetics may want to try to control blood sugar through lifestyle changes like diet and exercise first. Like all medications there are possible side effects with the use of Glucophage. These include minor things like diarrhea and nausea, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth, causing some people to lose their appetites. There have been a number of anecdotal reports that some people find their hair starts to thin while on the drug, but it's unclear whether this is because of the drug or due to some other condition. Side effects usually show up within a few weeks of starting Glucophage and will probably disappear after you've been taking the medication for some time.

However, a serious side effect called lactic acidosis may occur in rare situations. Lactic acidosis is a buildup of lactic acid in the blood and can be fatal. Symptoms include a feeling of extreme weakness or tiredness, breathing problems, feeling dizzy or faint, a slow or irregular heartbeat, and unusual stomach or muscle pain. Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency.

There are some people who should not take Glucophage. This includes people with liver or kidney problems, those who drink a lot of alcohol, and people who are seriously dehydrated, among others. Your doctor will be able to advise you best. Make sure you tell your doctor all the types of medications you take (including those not taken for diabetes), and let him know if you are intending (or already are) pregnant.

Taking Glucophage for diabetes is an option, however due to the potential side effects and risks, it's best to try to control blood glucose levels through diet and exercise first.