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Do i need Metformin

Posted , 6 users are following.

alan23011
alan23011

I am a 54yr old male of lean build, no othe health issues. Four years ago was diagnosed pre diabetic and since then have continued with a healthy diet and lots of exercise (triathlons, marathons). Went for annual check-up recently and blood sugar level came back 6.6 (I have personally tested my sugars monthly over the last four years, ranging between 5.3 and 6.7) and Doc reckons I should start taking Metformin (500mg daily) to prevent any health issues in the coming years. Not one for taking drugs and just wondering if a second opinion would be wise. I realise this dosage is at the lower end but fear of the 'slippery slope' scenario is nagging me. Any thoughts welcome.

0 likes, 18 replies

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  • althea98183
    althea98183 alan23011

    Posted

    Hi Alan, personally, I wouldn'y hesitate to take the 500mg you've been advised to take, which is just one tablet daily - I have to take 3 metformin 500mg one day, then 4 the next, with another diabetic tablet each day too.  This is to try and get my sugar level down from 7.6 to 7.00.  As I said, my nurse told me to tighten everything up, which isn't easy, so hopefully I've done enough.  Good luck to you though, am sure you'll be fine with one tablet - nothing to worry about I don't think.
    • akphoto
      akphoto althea98183

      Posted

      I'm surprised that you are trying to reduce your BG from 7.6 to 7. Sugar levels change throughout the day so it might be a little bit problematic to achieve the small change you are looking for. Glucose meters are not accurate to that degree and you can show that by testing twice or more at the one time. In fact, different meters will give you different BG values. However, I am not going to argue with your nurse but I am convinced that those of us with diabetes are not stupid and should ask lots of questions from the professionals.
  • stuart1953
    stuart1953 alan23011

    Posted

    Hi,

    I've been type 2 for years and had periods of good control and poor control. Back in may this year I stated the Slimming World diet. Within three months I came off gliclazide (60mg) and half of my metformin (500mg). I'm hoping to be off the last 500mg by the new year. I've lost 2 stone so far and recommended this diet for T2s!

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