Confusion reigns - again

[Emmaathome]

I know I'm still relatively new to all this, but I am really confused by my doc's latest course of action.

I have been suffering badly with side effects from Metformin since increasing to 4 a day, I have given it a good couple of weeks but the effects are worsening if anything, rather than improving. I have always had some effects even from 2 a day, but this has got worse as the dose increased. After a particularly tough Saturday I decided enough was enough and have stopped taking them. Although not better today, I think they will work their way out of my system and I should feel better soon.

The doc called me this evening to check how I am getting on with the Glimepiride which I have been taking for the last week - I explained it seemed fine but I let her know about the Metformin. She has advised that its fine for me to have stopped this, and perhaps when I feel better I might try them again (not on your nelly mate!!). I was led to believe there were alternatives to Metformin - the doc and nurse have always said if the side effects got too much they would give me something else - however it appears that isnt the case, as she hasnt suggested an alternative. I'm now just on the Glimepiride.

My waking BG is anywhere between 10 and 15 (with 4 Metformin and the Glimipiride). I assume things aren't about to get better with less meds!!!

Not really sure what to do now - should I ask for an alternative, should I assume they know what they are doing, should I see how i get on with Glimepiride alone?

I'm so confused!!!! As usual!!

 

[Pumper_Sue]

Hi Emma,
you are quite correct there is a slow release met. Ask for it directly.
As you are aware your numbers are way to high so to not replace the stopped met with anything else is 🙄
Have you been advised about your diet, as in reducing carbs to help your pancreas out?

 

[Emmaathome]

I have been doing weight watchers diet pretty much forever - was diagnosed whilst on this great diet. Have since swapped to a low fat, low cal, low GI diet, and that has improved things along with the meds.

I see the "official" diabetes dietician on Monday next week, so am hoping they can help me out further.

 

[Vicsetter]

It sounds like they are trying to get you stabilised, but these things take time. Metformin can take 3days to a couple of weeks to start work/wash out of your system. As has been said there is a Slow Release Metformin that you could ask about, didn't work for me.
If Diet/Exercise and Glimepride (sounds like furniture polish doesn't it) don't work then you will probably go onto Byetta/Bydureon or Insulin or possibly Victoza. I'm sure you are aware by now that Insulin means informing DVLA and your insurers, whereas Byetta/Bydureon/Victoza doesn't. Byetta/Bydureon and Victoza all have stomach upsets as possible side effects.
Will be interesting to hear what your official diabetes dietician advises.