Is Metformin Safe To Take With Low HbA1c Levels?

Posted on Fri, 20 Apr 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 20 Apr 2018 Answered on

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : I am concerned if there would be any reactions to meds listed. Also I am prediabitic. My last
AIC was 6.4 fasting blood sugar 104. I have what they call XXXXXXX phenomenon my morning
FBS are higher in am mostly around 120 . Then when I eat a meal . Around 2 hrs later is
from 102 to 111. The evening is usually lower. Am wondering because the Metformin ordered is
time released . could it drop my Blood sugars during the night and how long are the effects and when
it peaks. Am usually sensitive to a number of meds. Most statins and numerous antibiotics. I Just need to feel safe starting this medication . Thank you for any comments you have .

Answered by Dr. Mirjeta Guni (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:

About Metformine treatment:

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

First, I would suggest not to start Metformin as your HbA1c is under 7%.

At your age, we usually suggest starting Metformin when HbA1c is over 7%.

I would suggest life style modifications; diet and physical activity.

If you will start metformine, you should know that it does not cause hypoglycemia (the episodes are very very rare), and metformine with extended release does not have a peak of action.

Allergic effects are seen also very rarely in patients with Metformin.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Mirjeta Guni, Endocrinologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana