What are the symptoms of lactic acidosis, a possible side effect of Glucophage?

Lactic acidosis (or lactic acidemia) is the accumulation of lactic acid within the blood. Have you ever gotten a cramp in your side or leg after running? That is a little local accumulation of lactic acid, but more diffuse lactic acid build up can be very serious! Various symptoms can include muscle weakness and aches, a general feeling of malaise, but can also include vomiting. There can be kidney failure and even death if severe and systemic.

Intravenous x-ray iodine contrast dye has been reported to precipitate lactic acidosis in individuals receiving Glucophage [metformin]. If you stop taking the metformin for about four days before receiving x-ray contrast dye, the risk of possible lactic acidosis goes down. Underlying kidney problems may also lead to increased risk. As serious as lactic acidosis can be, it actually is extremely rare in patients on metformin.

DS