Diarrhea Or Constipation
Metformin can cause bowel changes, such as diarrhea or constipation. Around 53 percent of metformin patients experience diarrhea. Constipation does not occur as often. When the patient passes loose, watery stool three times or more in 24 hours, stomach cramps are possible. Avoiding dairy products and foods high in fat and eating low-fiber food can help reduce diarrhea. Metformin-related diarrhea is usually self-limiting, and does not require treatment. Patients may use over-the counter medications such as bismuth or loperamide to treat diarrhea. If black stools or diarrhea persist, patients should consult their doctor. These symptoms may indicate a serious illness.
Constipation occurs when stools are hard, dry or difficult to pass. Constipation is defined by most doctors as less than 3 bowel movements per a week. Constipation patients often feel pain when they bowel movement. Constipation can cause a feeling of constant fullness. Constipation can be treated by increasing dietary fiber. You may need to take laxatives over-the-counter. An enema may be required for severe constipation. If untreated constipation results in a blockage of the bowel, surgery may be required. Metformin-taking patients should consult their doctor to determine if they require fiber supplements or any other medications to prevent constipation.
