Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Support Group

Polycythemia is a condition in which there is a net increase in the total circulating erythrocyte (red blood cell) mass of the body. Primary polycythemia occurs when excess erythrocytes are produced as a result of a proliferative abnormality of the bone marrow. Secondary polycythemia is caused by increases of erythropoietin that result in an increased production of...

1,251 Members

6,072 Posts

0 Online

CrystaLynn1988 04/04/2013

Okay, so this is day four of taking Metformin 500mg twice a day. So far the only side effect is diarrhea and I feel like its just getting worse. Every time I eat, within 20-30 minutes I have to run to the bathroom. It's to the point where I'm afraid to go outside because I might need to run for a bathroom! I've heard it takes some time to get used to but I was wondering if anyone else had this problem in the beginning?

My main concern was this morning. Doc told me to eat before I take it so every morning I wake myself up to eat breakfast and take the pill. This morning I woke up and had pains in my stomach and knew I had to run to the bathroom. A couple minutes later I ate something small and took my pill. Within AT LEAST 5-10 minutes later I had to run back in the bathroom. Afterwards I saw the pill.. I passed it. This happened the first day (once). I heard that's normal too, but is it normal for it to happen so quickly? I feel like the pill didn't do it's job because it passed through me so quickly! Any ideas? Sorry for the TMI and thank you in advance!

-Crystal

deleted_user 04/06/2013

I was having a lot of diarrhea when I first started taking it, too. You know what helps me a lot? Jello water. Once I started drinking it, the diarrhea went away completely. Buy some sugar free jello (or normal, if you prefer, it doesn't matter) and follow the preparation instructions only don't put it in the fridge- drink it! Let it coagulate in your tummy. My aunt, who is a pediatric nurse, was the one who told me about it. She said they recommend it to little kids who have chronic diarrhea. It tastes kind of gross, like hot soda, but I had relief within hours.

Yeah. Just boil, add the powder, add cold water and drink! Voila! I personally have only had to do it twice. I feel like it lasts several days! Not sure if that is actually true or not But I was having diarrhea every single day, like bad. Once I did this, it was gone. Anyway, hope that helps. Good luck!

TammyGrl0528 04/06/2013

I've passed Metformin right away before as well. I am not sure though it if is that pill or possibly one taken earlier that didn't dissolve...who knows. Anyway, as long as it is not happening every time, I wouldn't worry too much about it.

As for the diarrhea, that is an awful side effect of Metformin. I found that eating the fewest amount of carbs as possible really helped it to the point where I was constipated rather than diarrhea...both suck, but it's about finding balance. So, one I became constipated with it I started eating a fiber bar every day and things seemed to balance out.

Hope you find some relief because I know you are miserable right now! It does get better...work with your diet and figure out what works for you! :)

deleted_user 04/12/2013

I know when I started metformin I had it bad but then again I wasn't listening to what the doctor told me to do while on the drug. My doctor advised me not to eat things like potatoes, rice and breads. Once I stopped eating that stuff I find that the pills stay in my system longer.

CrystaLynn1988 04/13/2013

@Cdowell Wow, I never heard of Jello water! And, it's so weird you say that because just the other day I was making Jello!! Lol Thanks for the advice, I will definitely try that!

@TammyGrl0528 You know, I am going through the same thing now! The passing has happened twice but that's all. I do notice the same, that when I stick to low-carb it doesn't happen that often! I'm still not back to normal but at least now it's not every time I eat! Thank your your advice!

@Jenethac Thanks! I notice that as well. I'm definitely going to get serious about this diet now more than ever! I guess it's like a blessing in disguise. If I stick to the only things my body can handle it will ultimately make me lose the weight.

Thank you all for the advice! I'm so grateful to be able to come to this site for help!

deleted_user 04/17/2013

Hi crystal. I've been on Metformin for several years and I remember having those side effects as well in the beginning. But, I've also been told that some people just don't do well on it. So, maybe you could try Glucophage or something else if it continues to be really bad. I feel for you because it is tough to start this medication. Best wishes.

Join the Conversation