Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign up Log in
Powered By
Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Nail Problem

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Glenrock, WY

I've been on Metformin for a little over six months. I'm having trouble with my fingernails. They've become brittle, peel, and grow very slowly. Is this a side effect of the drug?

November 29, 2017
 • 
Be the first to react

Answer Summary

Members responded to a question about whether Metformin causes brittle, slow-growing fingernails with mixed experiences, as some reported no... Read more

Members responded to a question about whether Metformin causes brittle, slow-growing fingernails with mixed experiences, as some reported no nail issues while others shared similar problems with brittle nails, hair loss, and skin changes. Several members offered practical solutions that have helped them, including taking magnesium supplements (since Metformin can deplete magnesium levels), biotin, or hair-skin-nails vitamins, protecting nails with polish, and using oils like avocado or baby oil. A recurring theme was that diabetes itself can affect nail and hair health, and many encouraged self-advocacy when symptoms arise, noting that supportive supplements and gentle self-care routines can make a real difference.

A DiabetesTeam Member

Take biotin to help this.

December 12, 2017
A DiabetesTeam Member

You need to take magnesium supplements. Nearly every system of the body needs magnesium to process properly, including essential protein to build new muscle, hair, nails, etc. Metformin washes magnesium out of the body so you need to supplement with about 700 mg of magnesium kelate daily.

January 8, 2018
A DiabetesTeam Member

supplement with avacado oil capsules. . . . helps hair and nails

December 21, 2017
A DiabetesTeam Member

I hAve the same problem so could be. Just had nails done in a salon with nice nails and polish. Told is common for diabetes.

December 3, 2017
A DiabetesTeam Member

Keep well everyone warm toes xx

January 25, 2018

Related content

View All

Trouble Getting Enough Blood To Test From The Finger Prick. I Have The One Touch And I’ve Never Tested Before Yesterday.

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Colorado Springs, CO

Does Anyone Notice That Your Urine Has A Strong Odor? What Are The Causes?

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Red Deer, AB

What Are You Doing For BLACK TOE NAILS?

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Miinesota

Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.
Already a Member? Log in