Diabetes Type 2 Support Group

Type 2 Diabetes is a condition in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or does not make efficient use of it. Insulin is a hormone needed to convert food into glucose, a sugar that the body uses for energy. Without enough insulin, glucose can accumulate in the blood, and can cause serious health problems such as heart disease and strokes and organ damage...

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bri980 09/02/2015

So actually I was diagnosed earlier this year when I got a new endocrinologist but I'm just now taking it consistently (ugh in denial patient lol). I have PCOS. My A1C was around 6, so my doctor put me on metformin. But she didn't really give me any answers or advice on how to manage my levels and stuff. I'm on 1000mg of metformin ER. On the bottle it says take two (500mg) pills every day. But when should I take them? At night or in the morning? Both? Is it a 12 hour ER?
I'm just kind of confused about everything.

She also said to check my blood sugar levels periodically but I don't really know what's normal and what's not. I do know I need to change my diet (no refined carbs etc). I already exercise regularly. My blood sugar feels constantly low (feeling dizzy and shaky and nauseous and ravenous).

I'm just new to all of this. I'm sorry for all the questions! I just thought maybe talking to some experienced people could help.

mzizgayle 09/02/2015

I am surprised you were put on that dosage for the A1C being only 6.

Basically you need to eat a healthy diet, there is no such thing as a diabetic diet. Stay away from white breads, potatoes, pasta and rice. These items have starch which can hold the numbers up higher and longer. Try not to eat a lot of fried foods since the fats also hold numbers up higher and longer. Watch portion control and learn to read food labels. Sugars are carbs so don't think "sugar free" is good, it has carbs.

your goal is about 35-45 carbs a meal, and a small snack of around 15-20 carbs. Numbers test 2 hours after a meal and they should be about 140 or less. Morning fasting under 100, tho some doctors may say different.

If you are having those feelings then you should be testing to make sure and don't cut yourself completely out of carbs etc. plus it could be a reaction to the metformin also.

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bri980 09/02/2015

Thank you so much Mzizgayle!

san2sweet 09/02/2015

I love you mizizgayle.... Ure just awesome

jody0385 09/08/2015

Talk to your pharmacist and dr about best times to take the meds. If it were the extended release version it would be marked on the label ER if it doesn't say ER then it's not the ER version. Metformin has both ER and regular release. I take mine once with breakfast and one with dinner. I can't tolerate a larger dose so I also take 1000mg a day. I do believe metformin has other protective qualities and that may be why you were given this dosage. Metformin doesn't necessarily lower blood sugar in general it's main job is to prevent the blood sugar spikes throughout the day or with meals. Be sure to take your dose with meals to help avoid any stomach discomfort too.

sugarymermaid 09/23/2015

Hi, I have PCOS and am on Metformin as well, but a 1500 mg a day dose. I always take my Metformin with meals, as it will cause stomach issues in some people if not taken with food. I definitely have to race to the bathroom if I take my dose without food. If you want official instructions, I would talk with your pharmacist.
I'm sorry you weren't given better instructions, and more information! I was in the same boat when I was diagnosed, however, my A1C was almost 12. As others have said, I am surprised you on such a high dosage for a A1C of 6. Mine is at 6 right now, and my doctor is estatic.
mzizgayle gave you very good dietary advice, and maybe you should also get a referral from your doctor to see a nutritionist. My nutritionist gave me the most helpful info of anyone so far, and can explain the Diabetic diet, plus give you some reading materials.

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