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[Fynelsy]

Hi all

been type 2 for 3 years always diet controlled until COVID-19 happened. Had a long awaited operation cancelled due to blood sugar going from 7.2 to 15 during lockdown and subsequently put on Metformin.

now taking 6 tablets per day which is fine but they make me feel really sick.

can anyone recommend anything ginger based or something else that is low in carbs I can eat to try to settle my stomach.

thanks in advance

 

[Docb]

Hi @Fynelsy and welcome.

Metformin upsetting the digestive system is a common side effect. The normal response is to wait a few days to see if it settles down. Alternatively you can ask your GP for the slow release version which is less of a problem. I cannot recall anybody reporting that they used anything to relieve the upsets metformin can cause, but you never know, somebody might have some ideas.

 

[ColinUK]

If there’s a gastroenterological side effect from the metformin then tell your GP and change it to the modified release version.

 

[RirisR]

Ginger tea is soothing for the stomach

 

[grovesy]

If your medication is making you feel that ill you need to speak to your prescriber.

 

[rebrascora]

When you say you are taking 6 tablets are they all Metformin as that seems a lot? Or have you been prescribed other medication as well as Metformin?

It helps reduce the risk of side effects if you take the Metformin mid meal with a reasonably substantial amount of food.
As others have said, if you think medication is making you feel unwell long term then speak to your GP or nurse.

When you say you were diet controlled up until Covid, is it because you have been comfort eating during lockdown that your levels have risen or do you think there is some other reason? It seems lockdown really split people with some doing much better with their diet and exercise and others really struggling, so entirely understandable if you lost your way with your dietary changes.
If the former, have you managed to get your diet back on track as that can be much more effective than most medication and no nausea or gastric upset side effects. We can help and support you with dietary changes if you
want to get back on the wagon with that, by suggesting low carb substitutes for meals or snacks if you give us an idea of what you currently eat.

I was once recommended chamomile tea for nausea but it just made me worse. You could certainly try some ginger tea.