Tag: Lactic acidosis

As the most widely prescribed oral medication for type 2 diabetes, with millions of patients using it globally, it is crucial to understand the concerns that lead people to ask: "Why are they saying metformin is bad for you?". While highly effective and generally safe, its reputation is sometimes clouded by publicized side effects, a rare but serious complication, and past recalls.

According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly one in four hospitalized patients has diabetes. In contrast to outpatient management, hospitals predominantly switch from oral medications like metformin to insulin to manage blood glucose, a strategy based on both patient safety and the physiological demands of acute illness.

According to Drugs.com, while no direct interactions have been found between Alka-Seltzer Original and metFORMIN, this does not mean there are no potential risks. The combination requires careful consideration due to the ingredients in Alka-Seltzer and the health profile of someone taking metformin for diabetes. This article explores the potential interactions and provides guidance on safer alternatives for managing common ailments.

Historically, concerns over a rare but serious side effect known as Metformin-Associated Lactic Acidosis (M-ALA) led to the common practice of stopping metformin before procedures involving contrast dye, such as an angioplasty. However, modern guidelines reflect a more nuanced, risk-stratified approach, focusing on kidney function to minimize risks while maintaining glycemic control.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), updated guidance recommends discontinuing metformin for at-risk patients undergoing intra-arterial procedures like an angiogram. The duration depends on a patient's kidney function, and the process includes a critical follow-up test. This guide will detail **how long to hold metformin before an angiogram** and the reasons behind the protocol.

According to a 2017 study, metformin was found to slightly increase heart rate during intraduodenal glucose infusion in patients with type 2 diabetes. While this suggests a minor physiological effect, it raises important questions for patients asking: 'Does metformin mess with your heart rate?'

While metformin is a highly effective and widely used medication for type 2 diabetes, the risk of metformin-associated lactic acidosis (MALA) is a rare but serious adverse event, with an incidence of about 5 cases per 100,000 in one analysis. This condition is primarily caused by a dual mechanism involving increased lactate production and reduced lactate clearance, especially when metformin accumulates in the body.

Approximately 1 in 5 adults experience chronic musculoskeletal pain [1.2.7]. For those taking metformin, a leading diabetes medication, questions arise: Does metformin affect the muscles in your legs? The answer is complex, involving both direct side effects and indirect benefits.

Metformin is a first-line treatment for Type 2 diabetes, with more than 92 million prescriptions dispensed in the U.S. in 2021. However, combining it with certain medications, substances, or medical procedures can lead to serious health complications, so it's vital to know what you should not mix with metformin.

While a serious risk, lactic acidosis from metformin is rare when used as prescribed, but the risk significantly increases with certain drug and substance interactions. This guide explores **what drugs should not be taken with metformin** to help you understand and avoid potentially dangerous combinations.