How long does it take to get used to metformin? (+3 tips)

In this article, we will discuss how long it takes to get used to metformin. We will also be sharing some tips that can help you get used to metformin so it has minimum side effects on the quality of your life.

How long does it take to get used to metformin?

The duration it takes to get used to metformin is different for every individual. The variance can be due to individual factors, the severity of side effects, and the dose of metformin you are taking (1).

Metformin is an antidiabetic agent that is used primarily for the treatment of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. It is also used in the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) (1). 

If you are suffering from either of these conditions, then metformin will be prescribed to you to help manage your insulin and glucose levels (1). Metformin can also be used in the treatment of gestational diabetes. 

The duration it takes get to used to metformin depends on different factors and cannot be estimated. Usually, it takes a few days to a few weeks for the side effects to resolve and your body to adjust to the medication. 

What factors affect the duration of getting used to metformin? 

Individual response to medication varies and different factors may influence the duration of getting used to metformin. They are as follows: 

Individual variations: 

Your age and genetic factors may influence the rate your body metabolizes the medication. The metabolic rate affects how quickly you adjust to the changes produced by metformin in your body.

Additionally, your overall health impacts your ability to tolerate metformin. Also, some individuals may be more sensitive to metformin than others. Thus, individual factors influence the duration to adjust to the medication. 

Side effects: 

Metformin causes different side effects and the severity of the side effects varies among individuals. If your side effects are severe, you may take longer to adjust to the medication. 

In your adjustment period after you begin metformin therapy, regardless of what condition you are taking it for; there will be certain side effects.

Some of these side effects are normal and short-term, these include nausea, vomiting, weakness, blurred vision, shakiness, headache, upset GI, etc. They will gradually go away once your body adjusts (3).

However, there are side effects that can be problematic or a sign of intolerance. Some examples of this include lethargy, lactic acidosis, allergic reactions, and myocardial infarction which are very rare (3).

In case of side effects that are a sign of intolerance, you should reach out to your healthcare provider (3).

Dosage: 

The dose of metformin you are taking also influences the duration of getting used to metformin. Metformin is usually started with a lower dose so that your body can adjust to it effectively and you can tolerate the side effects. 

Higher doses of metformin can cause more severe side effects leading to a longer time to get used to the medication. Smaller doses also allow the body to adapt to the changes metformin produces in insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. 

How can you tell if you are getting used to metformin? 

Metformin will start to show its effects by lowering the sugar in your blood levels within the first week of your treatment. This will be the first sign with which you can see that your body has started getting used to metformin. 

However, it may take up to 2-3 months or more to see its full effects. In the meantime, you can look out for the following signs that will show up to indicate that you are getting used to the prescribed dosage (2).

What are some tips to get used to metformin effectively?

Gradually increase the dose: 

If you take a very large quantity of metformin as an initial dose, chances are that your body will get extremely disturbed and will not tolerate it. The best way to get used to metformin is to slowly increase the dose.

Studies show that increasing metformin up to 1500mg/day to 2250 mg/day showed greatest efficacy. It also showed less GI intolerance at this dosing when gradually increased. 

In this way, your body will slowly get used to the required dose of metformin and will be able to maintain an optimal steady-state concentration at all times to prevent hypoglycemia (5).

Management of side effects:

GI side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, metallic taste in the mouth, and weakness are common at the start of the therapy. However, you can manage the side effects of metformin to get used to the medication.

If you are feeling nauseous, take it with food. Take small sips of water alongside to prevent dehydration. Do not use sugary drinks or fruit juices to relieve your nausea as they cause blood sugar spikes and counteract the effects of metformin.

If your symptoms do not eventually subside, or gradually worsen, consult your doctor (4).

Communicate with your healthcare provider:

If you have any queries or cannot understand anything about your prescription, consult your physician. They will help you adjust the dose according to your body’s physiology and tolerance.

A healthcare professional will also guide you about the necessary lifestyle changes you can make, what exercises will best suit you as well as what foods might be best for you. 

In my experience: 

As per my understanding, metformin is an antidiabetic agent that is used in the treatment of diabetes and PCOS. Depending on individual factors, there is a variance in how long it takes to adjust to metformin.

You can check how well you are adjusting to metformin by assessing of your blood sugar levels. You can also see the adjustment by observing the difference in your weight, or get your HbA1c checked.

The use of metformin causes certain side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and GI disturbances which are temporary. Management of these side effects can be done by gradually increasing the dose and lifestyle management.

References