[Hannah54]

Seriously anemic...go to my first endo. appt. ever tomorrow to bring the issue up (as my "regular" dr. agrees with me that Metformin might be the culprit...and is leaving the possible medication change/tests for that) to a "specialist". Nervous (fear of the unknown perhaps...) ad well as the known - that there seem to be serious potentialities with other meds too)...like Byetta, etc. Any thoughts or experiences?

[acktennislady]

I have not had any problems with anemia and metformin. I'm also on Novolog and lantus. When you had your tests for the upper gi and colonoscopy did they find and excess bleeding? Just a thought. Good luck.

[Hannah54]

Originally Posted by acktennislady

I have not had any problems with anemia and metformin. I'm also on Novolog and lantus. When you had your tests for the upper gi and colonoscopy did they find and excess bleeding? Just a thought. Good luck.

I am glad you have not had issues. No excessive bleeding identified. My upper endoscopy (inc. a biopsy) did NOT turn up ulcers, cancers, etc. My colonoscopy - I was told in a checklist - was negative for colorectal cancers, polyps, hemmorhoids, etc. Later, dr's ofc. said They HAD removed a hyperplastic (benign) polyp. Negative for Celiac Disease. Biopsy of hyperplastic polyp negative. I found reading on Metformin induced anemia (via causing B12 issues)...here (you must scroll down to see it): http://www.ovarian-cysts-pcos.com/gl...rmin-pcos.html

[Hannah54]

PS. Endo said that whether or not the anemia was caused by the Meformin, that no one with anemia should be on it. He changed me to a starting dosage of 1mg Glimeperide at dinnertime.

[acktennislady]

Good luck, I'm glad your docs are on it.
Oddly, I have had no side effects from the metformin, and count myself lucky.

Mary

[Hannah54]

TY Mary...but it was the Almighty who helped me to remember to use the brains He gave me to do my OWN research on the subject. Were it not for that, I would have not started at the obvious plave to start - which was possible repercussions from meds. Doctor was ignoring the obvious, while believing I had a big blood loss! See:

http://www.diabeteshealth.com/browse...ons/metformin/

I urge you to get your B12 tested periodically to stay safe. All the best!

[acktennislady]

Thanks Hannah, interesting reading. I have everything tested every three months. Due to my lack of colon, and reconstructive internal pouch I do not absorb some of my vitamins, so i do B-12 daily with an under the tongue pill that melts in your mouth. I used to get a shot every month, but have been able to get what i need with the pill.

Mary

[Hannah54]

Glad to see that you are, indeed, on top of your testing..and that I need mot have reminded you re: B12. My concern is, then, for others who may be suffering this fallout...and not know why. All the best, Mary!

[acktennislady]

Hope all is well with you too.
Mary

[almasinfe]

I just started taking metformin and after about 30-40 minutes in me and I want to sleep.. Like yesterday I slept 10hrs and got up for like 2hours and fell right back asleep for 5 more hours... It sucks