Sold under Fortamet and Glucophage’s brand name, Metformin is a form of oral medicine given for people with type 2 diabetes. This medicine works by improving a person’s blood sugar levels and preventing episodes of diabetes attacks.
Since Metformin helps control blood sugar levels, is it also applicable in treating type 1 diabetes? Does it also work in providing medical alleviation to people with type 1 diabetes?
People who have been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes only follow insulin medications. Whether it be fast-acting or short-acting types, insulin shots are what individuals with the condition perform daily. But how about oral medicines?
Experts say that oral medications like Metformin can increase a person’s insulin sensitivity. People with type 1 diabetes need to lose weight and require a large basal insulin supply. Thankfully, Metformin can do just that! Additionally, it works well during adolescence. The only precaution to remember when taking Metformin is to keep the liver and kidney functioning.
PCOS
Besides type 2 diabetes, people with type 1 diabetes are also prone to developing PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). It is a condition that women in their reproductive age experience. This hormonal disorder includes symptoms such as irregular periods, excess androgen, and polycystic ovaries.
The main treatment administered for PCOS is Metformin. It decreases the insulin levels of women with PCOS, making it a reliable treatment for people with type 1 diabetes. Even though it is unlikely to get prescribed Metformin if you have type 1 diabetes, there are a lot of testimonies that prove its effectiveness.
Benefits of Metformin for Type 1 Diabetes
- Consuming Metformin can reduce the needed amount of insulin to take in.
- It reduces appetite.
- It helps in losing weight.
What to know when following a Metformin medication
While losing weight is beneficial for people with type 1 diabetes, there are side effects to expect during a Metformin treatment. Some of these include:
- Diarrhea
- Cramping
- Flatulence
- Nausea
- Vomiting
These adverse reactions may sound unpleasant. However, they can vanish after a short time. These side effects are also manageable, so immediate medical attention is not necessary.
Precautions and Warnings
Metformin works for type 1 diabetes. However, there are precautions that an individual must follow and adhere to. Some of these include:
- Avoid Metformin medication if you have a history of a severe kidney infection
- If you are allergic to Metformin, this oral medicine is not for you.
To ensure that Metformin is suitable for your condition, discuss with your doctor if you have the following:
- Liver problems
- Heart disease
- Kidney problems
Takeaway
A Metformin prescription is not given right away. The doctor will reassess your condition before recommending the usage of this medicine. Note that Metformin is produced for treating type 2 diabetes and not for type 1. If you are not allowed to use this medicine, you can continue with your insulin treatment.
