I am taking Metformin 500mg for my diabetes twice a day. The doctor has asked me to take one tablet with breakfast and another with dinner. But I have been skipping dinner these days. So, can I stop taking the night dose of Metformin to avoid low sugar episodes?
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Metformin is the most common tablet used in diabetes. The most common side effect that old drugs for diabetes caused was postprandial Hypoglycemia (low sugar episodes).
Metformin works differently from drugs prescribed earlier for diabetes. It does not interfere with glucose levels, and hence, does not cause hypoglycaemia as a side effect in the body. Thus, taking Metformin on an empty stomach will not cause an adverse reaction or undesirable consequences like low sugar episodes.
So, you can continue the night dose of Metformin. However, if you experience any sweating or dizziness in the morning hours, visit your doctor. He might perform clinical examinations and ask for necessary lab tests. If needed, he may also change your medications.
Avoid altering the dosage of the medication without doctor’s approval.
Read more about glycemic index.