Possible Side Effects

Like other medications, diabetes medications may have some side effects. It's important to talk to your doctor about any possible side effects from your medications and signs to watch for.

Q Metformin is the most common drug used for type 2 diabetes. Which of the following may be a side effect of Metformin?
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Many unpleasant side effects of medications can be prevented and avoided. Bloating, gas and diarrhea are possible side effects of Metformin. They can be minimized by taking the Metformin after a meal.

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Many unpleasant side effects of medications can be prevented and avoided. Bloating, gas and diarrhea are possible side effects of Metformin. They can be minimized by taking the Metformin after a meal.

Some medications need to be taken with meals; others on an empty stomach to avoid side effects. Sometimes, the amount of medication prescribed affects whether you will experience side effects. Certain medications work best by starting with a small dose and gradually building up to a certain level in your system. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have.

Common Medicines & their side effects

  • Type of oral medicine
    Possible side effects
  • Insulin secretagogues Biguanides (Metformin)
    Hypoglycemia Bloating, gas and diarrhea. Can be minimized by taking medication after meals.
  • Thiazolidinediones
    Can cause swelling of ankles. Not recommended with congestive heart failure.
  • Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors and DPP-4 inhibitors
    Abdominal pain, gas and diarrhea. Not to be used with sulfonylureas

This information is a summary from "Your First Year with Diabetes" and has been provided with the permission of the American Diabetes Association.

It is a book that is recommended by the American Diabetes Association for people that have been recently diagnosed with diabetes.

Click on the image to go to the American Diabetes Association bookstore.

Note: Care4life has no commercial interest in any of the books or resources it recommends.