I do not take it, but I can offer some information that may be helpful.
Metformin is the normal first choice medication for type 2 diabetes around the world. It has been used for several decades, is effective, and cheap. When necessary, other medications will be taken in addition to it. However if Metformin is not suitable then an SGLT2 inhibitor is usually prescribed in place of Metformin.
Qtern is a medication which combines an SGLT2 inhibitor and a DPP-4 inhibitor, simply for the convenience of not having to take them separately. A DPP-4 inhibitor is one of the standard options as a second medication, so usually taken alongside Metformin.
If you have not been prescribed Metformin then presumably your G.P. does not feel it is safe for you to take it, but only they can explain why it is not suitable for you.
The main risk with Metformin, though, is lactic acidosis when taken by people with some liver or kidney problems. So these can be a reason for it not being prescribed. Although some people cannot take it due to gastrointestinal side effects, usually determined after having tried it first, as well as the standard issues that apply to any medications; allergies or adverse interactions with other medications
A [[really ] very] little bit of information on what the two types of medication in Qtern do is available on the Diabetes UK site:
SGLT2 inhibitors are a type of medication you might need to take if you have type 2 diabetes. They are also known as gliflozins.
www.diabetes.org.uk
DDP-4 inhibitors are a type of medication you might need to take if you have type 2 diabetes. They are also known as gliptins.
www.diabetes.org.uk
