Metformin and Upset Stomach: What Users Say (Page 2)

• Anonymous
• September 24, 2011

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "The only issue with this medication for me was the stomach upset, gas, and diarrhea. However, the positives totally outweigh the negatives. After 6 months with no period and working out 3-4 days a week with no weight loss, it took 2 weeks on 1000 mg/day of metformin to have a period and lose 5 lbs! I noticed that the stomach upset is worst when I eat something heavy or fatty. I continue to work out and am anxious to see where I will be a year from now."

• Blo...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• October 23, 2016

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "I am 31 years old and was diagnosed with PCOS 2 weeks ago. I had my period regularly when I was 14 for one year. I haven't had a period since I was 15. I was put on Metformin 2 weeks ago. In the first week, I lost eight pounds. My husband and I have been married for 5 years and are trying to conceive and have been unsuccessful so far. I'm really hoping this will work. I take Metformin 500 mg 2x a day. I only had dizziness, upset stomach, and diarrhea for the first week. These have all subsided."

• det...
• May 26, 2016

For Type 2 Diabetes "I have been on this medication a mere 4 days. I have gained 7 pounds in that time. I also feel extremely bloated. I also had an upset stomach for the first two days. I am getting off of it immediately! I must be one of the lucky ones, it is not working well for me at all."

• Jag...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 5, 2017

For Type 2 Diabetes "I started taking metformin 500 mg twice daily this June and had a hell of symptoms like diarrhea, stomach ache, dizziness, weakness, etc. But the condition improved within a month of use. Never felt so energetic and cheerful. Six months on and have increased to 1500 mg per day. Request the users not to discontinue without feeling the positive effects."

• Mac...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 16, 2025

For Type 2 Diabetes "I’ve been on 500 mg of extended-release metformin for 2 months. I’m not feeling any change within myself for energy or seeing any weight loss yet. However, my blood pressure is lower after previously seeing diastolic readings of around 85, and now around 70. The side effects lasted about 1 week - diarrhea, stomach cramps, and headache. I’m scheduled to see if my blood sugar has reduced in about a month, so crossing my fingers for that."

• cut...
• August 16, 2008

For Type 2 Diabetes "I began Metformin a week ago to control what is referred to as borderline diabetes with a fasting blood sugar of 129. I am taking only 500 mg twice a day and had an upset stomach the first couple of days only. Coupled with Armour Thyroid and Iodral, my cravings for sweets and spicy are much less, and I have been able to stick to the diet for 1200 calories and journal for the past 7 days, which is a record for me. After my last visit and B12 shot, I have been told to double the thyroid if I began to feel tired after a few days again."

• Kar...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 21, 2016

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "I have been off and on birth control since 2011 to regulate my period. After being off birth control for 6 months, I went to the doctor for refills, except this time he prescribed birth control and metformin. I have been taking 500 mg a day for the past 5 days, and it has been absolute HELL! I feel bloated and weak all day. I feel nauseous all the time, which also discourages me from eating. And when I do eat, I get stomach aches and occasionally diarrhea. Also, I already had a sleeping problem, but now it's cramps and tossing and turning all night. But I think the worst for me is the bloating, I constantly feel like I just ate a whole cow! It's so uncomfortable! Eventually, I'll have to take 1000 mg. Hoping the side effects decrease."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• February 15, 2019

For Type 2 Diabetes "Metformin was horrible for me. I was on it for over 6 months and had severe stomach problems/diarrhea the whole time. It never even helped to lower my A1C. I had to finally tell my doctor ENOUGH and moved on to an injection."

• KeL...
• June 24, 2015

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "I was diagnosed with PCOS in 2013 but did not start taking Metformin seriously until late 2014. I am also prediabetic, which is what has jump-started my desire to seriously lose weight. I cannot speak for blood sugar levels as I have not had them rechecked, nor have I gotten my cycle back, but I also have a significant amount of weight to lose first. I definitely experience an upset stomach and pretty intense diarrhea; however, this only seems to happen if I do not watch my carb and/or sugar intake. If I eat sensibly, I have little to no issues in the side effect department. I am losing weight and moving more and hope to one day not need medication anymore."

• Jus...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• April 11, 2023

For Type 2 Diabetes "I have been on metformin for a few years. I went from insulin injection to metformin, and while it hasn't helped me lose weight, it has kept my sugar down. People on here talk about diarrhea and stomach cramps, but it only happens when you don't eat anything when you take it or after you take it. If you eat dairy and try to eat sweets and greasy food, it will run through you. In order for this to work, you have to eat right too. I switched from dairy to lactose-free things, it helps a bunch because metformin seems to interact with dairy. Just eat like you should-healthy, no greasy, no fried food, no sweets. Eat something light and healthy when you take it, and drink lots of water too, it'll be okay. It has helped my heart too."

• Lil...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 13, 2019

For Type 2 Diabetes "I took metformin for two weeks - changing from IR tabs 500 mg twice a day, because my A1C was down to 5.5 - mostly due to gallbladder trouble and not being able to eat. This medication caused so much intestinal distress I was forced to switch back to IR tabs. Stomach pain, severe bloating and gas, and diarrhea. This may not be the case for others. I also must take ox bile and other digestive supplements because I no longer have a gallbladder."

• Jim...
• July 22, 2009

For Type 2 Diabetes "I was on Metformin for about a month (500 mg twice a day). I was told that it would give me stomach problems and loose stools, but since I have irritable bowel syndrome, that didn't worry me. As it turns out, this medicine had the opposite effect. I had constipation all the time. Only a good dose of laxatives would help, but even then, I had to strain pretty hard to relieve myself. Finally, my doctor decided to take me off the medication, since my readings were in the mid 80s. I've been off for about two days, and I'm feeling very light-headed. I'm hoping this will pass soon. My readings are still good, and the constipation is abating."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 30, 2021

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "I have been trying to conceive about a year now. I then decided to go see my doctor. I was asked to run some tests, which came out as PCOS. I was placed on metformin. Wow, the side effects dealt with me big time: constant diarrhea and stomach upset. In fact, I didn't go out. This is actually my fourth day on it, but I am grateful I have lost weight, and I believe I will conceive soon because this drug works like magic. I am taking 1000 mg a day."

• Jes...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 16, 2017

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "I'm 28. I was diagnosed with PCOS at 27 after no periods for 4 months (usually regular). GP prescribed Metformin and told me to lose weight. I’ve been taking Metformin since late November 2016 (about 8 weeks now), and my period arrived (with a vengeance) the first week of January 2017, so about 6 weeks after starting. Can’t tell if it was the pills, but I like to think it helped. Metformin makes me nauseous sometimes, I snack less. I occasionally have an upset stomach and diarrhea. I make sure I’m near a toilet before eating a proper meal. I drink lots of water and don’t take any other pills. It’s hard not to worry, but follow the plan and take it easy on yourself. I’m glad I was given Metformin and will continue to take it. All the best xxx"

• Pen...
• May 15, 2015

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "I started taking metformin in March. I've gone from 500 mg to 1500 mg, and this week I got my period. I haven't had one since December 2014. I've had very little side effects, just a little nausea and an unsettled stomach. I'm really hoping my periods will regulate now. I have also lost 9 lbs since 20th March."

• Bad...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 8, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "I read some good reviews and was eager to try it out for the weight loss & 'feel-good' feeling others mentioned. I was on the min dose, 1 pill a day, 500 mg. I did not have diarrhea, instead, I had terrible constipation. I had no changes in my blood sugar, and within a few weeks, I had the most horrible bloating and stomach cramps I have ever known. I looked pregnant. As soon as I quit taking it, my bloated belly went back down to normal, BM returned to normal, and I will never touch it again."

• Kat...
• October 23, 2019

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "I was diagnosed with PCOS when I was 16. I was overweight, no period, cysts in my armpits, my body went into pregnancy mode and I craved foods and started lactating, and my thyroid was damaged. I was put on metformin 500 mg 3 times a day and thyroid meds. I’ve been on them for 10 years. A few years ago a doctor upped it to 1000 mg 2 times a day. Haven’t seen a huge difference. Immediately when I was 16 and started taking it, I lost weight and got my period. All the symptoms went away over time as well. It’s known to cause sickness and stomach problems for a while, and anytime you are irregular with taking your medicine. I experienced that for a few weeks but didn’t come off of it because it’s supposed to go away, and it did. I take mine when I wake up and when I go to bed. I haven’t had any problems with my periods for 10 years, until recently. I’m 26 and my periods have stopped the last 2 months, so my medicine will be adjusted this week most likely by my doctor."

• Dar...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• September 25, 2020

For Female Infertility "Partner and I were trying for a baby for (at the time) 3 years and no luck, got diagnosed with PCOS. Doctor prescribed me Metformin and Clomid. Took it for about a year/year and a half. My periods were more regular, but then for a good month, I had bad stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and headaches. Luckily, the side effects went away in the second month, but it (Metformin and Clomid) never did any good in getting pregnant. Going on 5 years with zero luck."

• Lon...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 7, 2022

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "Started metformin over 7 weeks ago now. Starting from 500 mg worked up to 2000 mg. I did have side effects the first 3-4 weeks, feeling nausea and upset stomach. But they went away. I've lost over 14 lbs in less than a month even though I wasn't overweight to begin with, but my weight has been stable now. Only problem is I haven't had a period since starting them. My period is usually between 43-45 days. I'm nearly at 60 days, never been without a period this long! I'm starting to become quite uncomfortable. Good points are my spots I have on my chest and back have cleared up, and I haven't ever had a clear chest nor back. I was diagnosed with PCOS at 13 years old, and I'm 29 now. My hair growth has slowed down. I also feel less tired. Before, I used to have heavy eyes and felt tired throughout the day, I don't even have that problem anymore. Only negative, which I wanted most, is I've had no period. Tips: Eat a healthy diet, drink plenty, and eat with medication, it does make a big difference in side effects."

• che...
• January 29, 2015

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "I am 17 and have been diagnosed with PCOS since December 2014. I started Metformin 1 week ago, and the side effects have been fairly uncomfortable. The biggest and most surprising side effect I've encountered has been sleepiness. Today I had 20 oz of a cappuccino and 2 Dr. Peppers, but I was still tired throughout the day. I gained 20 lbs since 2013 and am hoping I will lose some on Metformin since a lot of reviews say they lost some pounds on it. Keeping my fingers crossed. Definitely encountering decreased appetite, upset tummy, and discomfort, but nothing I can't handle. Too soon to tell if there will be many positive effects."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• March 8, 2022

For Type 2 Diabetes "I was only on it a couple of weeks when it started giving me horrible stomach cramps. I have now been off of it three weeks, and my stomach is still making horrible noises. My sister could even hear the noise when I was talking with her on speakerphone. I won’t ever take metformin again."

• wai...
• March 4, 2010

For Type 2 Diabetes "Taking metformin twice daily for nine days now - 1st time user - horrible stomach cramps and diarrhea first 7 days, but clearing up now, sleeping 10-13 hours every other day and feeling tired in the evening, not in the morning. Nauseous when eating anything in the evening, headaches in the evening also. Seeing a drop in glucose readings of about 30 points fasting at this time, some weight loss probably from fluid loss and not eating much in the evenings."

• ape...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 10, 2021

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "I've tried it twice before. This time a doctor suggested trying the extended release despite me explaining that my gene test showed that I don't metabolize the drug well. It's been 3 days, and I'm calling it quits. I haven't been able to sleep, my stomach is constantly on fire, and I have extreme food aversions. How does someone have gas, nausea, and diarrhea if they can't eat anything? I'm super bloated and feel like I have the flu. I'm moody and have had 2 panic attacks, which I haven't had in 10 months. It's a no for me."

• sar...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 18, 2019

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "9 years marriage, PCOS since 14, period comes 2/3 times in a year, acne, weight 143 lbs, height 5'2", TTC (trying to conceive) for 2 years, tube open. After failing 3 cycles of Clomid, now I am taking metformin XR 500 mg twice a day with letrozole 5 mg. At first, I didn't understand the process of taking the med, doctors said to take it with a meal, quite confusing. So I took it usually after finishing my meal, also folate. Then I noticed stomach ache and discomfort. So I changed the shift, took it in the middle of my food. Then the pain is gone, and now it suits me well. After 10 days, I got my period 15/8. Seems happy that it didn't actually happen without Provera. Today, 19/9, still didn't get my period. Feeling tense and can't share this with anyone, because I don't want to upset my family with false hope. I haven't tested yet, want to wait for a few days, actually afraid of going through the heartbreaking single line. Does metformin regulate periods every month like clockwork, or is it messed up by delaying?"

• 40 ...
• October 29, 2008

For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome "I have been taking Metformin for my PCOS since September 8th. When I don't eat before I take it, I get headaches and tummy aches. I tend to get shaky and faint feeling. So I make sure that I eat first and never take them on an empty stomach. If I miss a pill or two, I feel bad, sick-like. I forgot I was not supposed to drink and had a beer, I became really tired and felt like I had a sugar crash, won't do that again. Other than that, the only side effect that the pill gives me is a dry mouth. I am always thirsty. My face has cleared up, but I have not lost any noticeable weight at the moment. Take this medicine as directed. Rating this medicine as a 5, I have not been taking it long enough to see any changes other than a clear face."