I Have What Appears To Be A Very Complicated Problem.

Posted on Wed, 19 Jun 2019

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : I have what appears to be a very complicated problem. Constant constipation except on occasion unexpected diarrhea. This unexpected diarrhea is completely altered my life because I don't go anywhere. Is there any answer to these problems. I am 88 years old have hypertension and type II diabetes. Also have recently stopped taking Eliquis for blood clot in right lung.

Follow up: Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (15 minutes later)

Presently taking The following medications
Metformin 500 mg
Indapamide 1.25 mg
Telmisartin 80 mg
Amlodipine 10 mg
Pravastatin 10 mg
Tamsulosin .4 mg

Answered by Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Metformin can be the cause.

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear, welcome to 'Ask A Doctor' service.
I read your query and here is my advice.

I think the problem you are having may be a side effect of the drugs you are taking.
Metformin can cause such diarrhea as well as constipation.
Telmisartan and indapamide can cause diarrhea.
However, I think Metformin is the main cause of diarrhea.

I can recommend you to take probiotics once per day to help with it. Also lowering the dosage and taking the Metformin not with the meal but away from meals can help. Do discuss this with your treating doctor as well.

Hope I have answered the question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee