Page changed: The Truth about Oral Diabetic Drugs
Added information from updated Metformin prescribing information explaining that metformin should be discontinued at the time of or slightly before radiological procedures involving injected dye and not taken for the next 2 days. After that kidney function should be evaluated with a serum creatinine test before metformin is started again. The latter recommendation is courtesy of a radiologist who pointed me to these updated guidelines.
In rare cases in people with marginal kidney function the use of contrast dyes may cause kidney failure if a dose of metformin is taken after the dye is used. It is also possible to develop lactic acidosis when this happens. This is rare, but because many people with poorly controlled diabetes have significant kidney damage, it is important for people taking metformin to be aware of this.
These recommendations have changed from what they were a few years ago.
Yes this is true in fact they ask you on the forms prior to taking a ct scan for example if you are a diabetic on metformin . but it is always a good idea to remind staff that you are a diabetic on this drug or any other. Everyone should be proactive in their healthcare.
ReplyDeleteI had a very bad reaction after a CT scan with dye...I gave them a list of my meds (incl metformin) which they ignored, told me I would be fine. Nearly passed out while driving home after the CT, 9-1-1 call, emergency room, a lot of panic, etc., but in the end no damage done. Only months later did I learn about the metformin connection. Now I wear a med-tag which says, among other things: "MEDS: METFORMIN - NO CONTRAST DYE 48 HRS". (I am Type 2 - at the time I was "pre-diabetic" with fairly poor BG control.)
ReplyDeleteJenny,
ReplyDeletePlease see my post in Dr Davis's blog under yours. In the future I'll address you directly. I like your work.