Metformin and Lactic Acidosis
Metformin and Lactic Acidosis. What you should know about its side effects that most people don’t. Consult with your doctor after you learn this.
One side effect in particular is of great concern for anyone taking Metformin. This article is to help you understand the problem and then we’ll break it down even further so you can learn as much as you want about this dangerous situation, how to notice it, and the specifics of who should be on the lookout for the problem.
The most serious side effect of taking Metformin is lactic acidosis. This specific problem is a difficult recovery. In fact, for some people who don’t know about this problem and what to look for it can even be fatal. When it comes to lactic acidosis knowledge really is power.
Let’s start with the condition of Lactic Acidosis. In the simplest terms lactic acidosis happens when lactate (not lactic acid) builds up in the blood stream faster than it can be removed. The build up usually happens due to a low pH level in tissues in the body. Due to this low level, oxygen can’t get to the tissues. In order to survive, sugars are broken down inefficiently. This process replaces the natural desired glucose process that creates ATP. The body using glucose fuel without the benefit of adequate oxygen, lactate results. When this product builds up a damaging, toxic situation occurs.
Metformin and Lactic Acidosis
Lactate itself can result in damage. The reduced oxygen levels are also serious. Obviously, if this imbalance gets too high for too long it causes serious problems.
While this condition can happen as a result of very intense exercise, medically is it connected to a few different diseases. Those include cancer, AIDS, kidney failure, respiratory failure and sepsis. You’re likely to be aware of the problem if you have any of these conditions. With so much blood testing involved while diagnosing diabetes, any serious problem in this group is probably found at the same time.
With diabetes and those taking Metformin however, it starts to get a little more subtle and complicated. Kidney function and diabetes have a close relationship. Because your kidneys may have been overworked prior to diagnosis the line between healthy and at risk can be very narrow.
Once a person is taking the drug Metformin, that line can become even more blurry. Because of how the drug works, you release about 90% of the unused medication through urine. The result is increased potential for damage for those with unhealthy kidneys. Many people don’t realize they live with reduced kidney function. So the only way to be sure is medical testing.
Now that you’re aware of this potentially serious side effect from Metformin, it’s important to know what kind of testing you need to stay healthy. The symptoms to look for regardless of any recent tests are also important.
This is everything you need to know about Metformin and Lactic Acidosis before consulting with your doctor and asking her the right questions.
