Tag: Lactic acidosis

While metformin is a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes, some users report side effects. The question, 'Can metformin make your feet and legs swell?' is common, though direct causation is unusual [1.2.6].

Metformin is one of the most widely prescribed medications for type 2 diabetes, but for some, long-term use can lead to concerns about its impact on mobility. A crucial question for many patients is, **Can metformin affect your walking?** The answer involves understanding potential links to nutrient deficiencies, nerve damage, and other rare side effects.

Over 30% of patients using metformin long-term may experience vitamin B12 deficiency, a condition that can lead to nerve damage in the legs [1.4.1]. So, what are the side effects of metformin on the legs that you should be aware of?

While there is a well-documented, potentially serious interaction between metformin and contrast dye, the interaction involving glipizide is different and less severe, though still requires careful management. Understanding the distinct pharmacological pathways of these two diabetes medications is essential for patient safety during imaging procedures that require contrast media.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), metformin carries a Boxed Warning regarding the risk of a rare but serious condition called lactic acidosis, a risk that is heightened by certain medications. This critical information clarifies what medication should you not take while on metformin and how to manage these risks safely.

Over 36,000 patient-years of exposure in controlled trials found no cases of lactic acidosis specifically from metformin, yet the risk increases significantly with certain co-administered drugs and conditions. Knowing what drug cannot be taken with metformin, or which require special precautions, is crucial for patient safety and effective diabetes management.

Up to 30% of people experience gastrointestinal side effects when first starting metformin, with symptoms often beginning within the first few days. Understanding **how quickly do metformin side effects start** can help patients prepare for and manage the initial adjustment period, potentially improving long-term adherence and overall treatment success.

Janumet, a medication for type 2 diabetes, combines metformin and sitagliptin, but comes with significant drawbacks. A critical disadvantage of Janumet is the potential for serious side effects, such as the rare but fatal lactic acidosis, which carries the FDA's most serious warning.

The incidence of metformin-associated lactic acidosis (MALA) is rare, estimated to be between 2 and 9 cases per 100,000 patient-years [1.2.2, 1.2.5]. While the question 'Does metformin cause lactic acidosis?' is common, the reality is the risk is very low for most patients [1.2.1].

The combination of acetazolamide and metformin is often listed as a major drug interaction due to the potential for a serious and life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis. Therefore, if a patient asks, "Can you take acetazolamide with metformin?", the answer from medical professionals is almost always a strong recommendation against it, especially without extreme caution.