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May 7, 2007

Pills for Diabetes

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Question from Sunnyside, Washington, USA:

Could you please tell me if Glucophage (metformin) lowers postprandial glucose levels or only targets fasting levels? I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes almost six years ago based on an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (I was not pregnant). I’ve had normal fasting levels since, usually in the 90s mg/dl [5.0 to 5.5 mmol/L] with a few 100 to 110s mg/dl [5.6 to 6.0 mmol/L]. Sometimes, my postprandial levels go high, occasionally slightly over 200 mg/dl [11.1 mmol/L], like 205 mg/dl [11.4 mmol/L], with a few around 221 mg/dl [12.3 mmol/L]. I’ve sometimes tested one hour after supper found my glucose over 200 mg/dl [11.1 mmol/L], but at two hours, it can be under 140 mg/dl [7.8 mmol/L]. The highest I’ve seen my glucose was 255 mg/dl [14.2 mmol/L] one hour after lunch when I had a touch of the flu in February of this year; it was down to 123 an hour later.

My A1cs have been slowly increasing, especially over the past year. In December 2005, it was 5.6%, but in December 2006, it was at 6.08%, the highest it’s been. I will have another one done in June.

At my last appointment with her, my doctor suggested thinking about putting me on Glucophage. I know some diabetics with lower A1cs and still not on medication, even though their fasting levels may be in the 120s mg/dl [6.7 to 7.1 mmol/L]. I also know that pre-diabetics are put on medication at diagnosis. What about someone diagnosed as I was?

What do you suggest for me? I am an almost 48 year old female. I’ve lost around 25 pounds since diagnosis and probably could lose another 15 to 20 pounds. I am also on blood pressure and cholesterol medications.

Answer:

From: DTeam Staff

Metformin is the consensus first-line drug for type 2 diabetes. It treats both fasting and post-meal blood sugars. It is available as a generic. It is safe to use. The only big side effect is loose stools and bloating. These GI symptoms tend to get better the longer you use the medication. It is also minimized by starting slow and titrating up the dose. It is also associated with weight loss. Your goal should be a normal A1c, if possible. Keep up the good work. It sounds like your management is on target.

JTL