Metformin.

Metformin can be prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in patients that need to control their blood sugar and need to be taking medications for that. You may be recommended to take metformin to keep your disease under control. However, to benefit from the treatment you will probably need to take metformin for the rest of your life, as this is a treatment rather than a cure. Make sure you tell your health care provider if you have any contraindications – such as a history of an allergic reaction or pregnancy. Serious side effects of metformin are uncommon and can include nausea, shortness of breath, muscle pain, weakness, vomiting, lightheadedness, fast or slow heartbeat, stomach pain, extreme tiredness, dizziness, or decreased appetite. They need to be reported directly to your health care provider. Less serious side effects are more common – they can be any of the following symptoms: stomach pain, bloating, sneezing, flushing of the skin, cough, metallic taste in mouth, heartburn, gas, diarrhea, runny nose, constipation, headache, and muscle pain. They do not need to be reported, as they tend to be short-lived and tend to disappear on their own pretty soon.