
January 30, 2003
Other Social Issues, Pills for Diabetes
Question from Lexington Kentucky, USA:
My 18 year old college friend, who has had type 2 diabetes for a little over a year, is taking Glucophage XR, and a few days ago I was using her bathroom and noticed that on the prescription bottle it says do not drink alcoholic beverages while taking this medication, but she has been drinking on the weekends. Is his going to cause her any harm? If so what can I tell about the reason is that she should not be drinking?
Answer:
I would respond to your friend in a way that says you know she should not be drinking while taking the Glucophage XR [metformin]. If you cannot get her to stop altogether, have her drink in moderation. There are some side effects that can occur, especially with moderate to severe drinking. She does not want to exchange one problem for another. The additional calories are not good for diabetes either.
JTL