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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.

What is everyone's input on taking metformin for years at a time twice a day since February 2015. I hear different things about it.

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Gold Beach, OR
October 19, 2025
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A DiabetesTeam Member

You are asking the wrong question

The right question is "what would have happened to me if I "hadn't" been taking metformin all that time because the "side effects" of uncontrolled diabetes are debilitating and deadly 100% of the time without fail

So if you couldn't manage the diabetes "without meds" on your own then the question serves no purpose - you had to treat or have body parts amputated, loss of vision, destruction of your kidneys, vascular dementia or death from heart attack or stroke

What side effect from taking a drug that Prevented all that is or could be so bad that you would worry about it that you obviously have not experienced in the more than a dozen years taking a drug that has been around for nearly 100 years and prescribed likely well over a few billion times???

October 20, 2025
A DiabetesTeam Member

Besides reducing blood sugars. It can help protect your heart, and can help with weight loss. But long term use can deplete B12. I couldn't tolerate Metformin because of the GI side effects. There extended release is gentler on the tummy.

October 20, 2025
DiabetesTeam

Metformin is one of the most studied and trusted diabetes medications available. It's considered a safe, effective, and reliable long-term treatment option. The medication works by:

• Reducing sugar production in your liver
• Helping your body use insulin more effectively
• Slowing down sugar absorption from food
• Show Full Answer

Metformin is one of the most studied and trusted diabetes medications available. It's considered a safe, effective, and reliable long-term treatment option. The medication works by:

• Reducing sugar production in your liver
• Helping your body use insulin more effectively
• Slowing down sugar absorption from food
• Sometimes helping with weight loss, which can improve diabetes management For successful long-term use of metformin, consider these important tips:

• Take it with food if you experience stomach upset
• Ask about extended-release versions if you have digestive issues
• Stay hydrated, especially if taking it with other diabetes medications
• Attend all doctor appointments and get regular blood work
• Report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider
• Always inform your doctor about any supplements you're taking

Remember that managing diabetes is a long-term commitment, and metformin remains one of the most trusted medications for this purpose. Never stop or change your dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.

October 19, 2025

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