Tag: Metformin side effects

Up to 54% of patients taking extended-release (ER) metformin have reported seeing remnants of the pill, known as "ghost tablets," in their stool. The seemingly undigested casing can cause anxiety and lead to a common question for those managing diabetes: **why do my metformin pills come out in my stool?**

While about 4.4% of users report headaches, the reasons can be multifaceted [1.3.1]. Understanding **why does metformin cause headaches** involves looking at how the drug affects your body's glucose metabolism, nutrient levels, and even vascular systems as it works to control blood sugar.

Approximately 30% of patients taking metformin experience gastrointestinal side effects, with diarrhea being the most common. While these symptoms often improve over time, understanding exactly why does metformin cause diarrhea is key to managing it effectively. The reasons range from changes in gut bacteria to hormonal effects and altered absorption processes.

In the U.S., over 90 million prescriptions for metformin were issued in 2021 [1.10.1]. Deciding when to quit metformin is a significant medical decision that should always be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, based on factors like side effects, kidney health, or improved blood sugar control [1.2.2].