Question
My grandfather is in his 70s and has been suffering from type 2 diabetes for six years. He has been taking Dihua Sugar Tablets and Metformin. Recently, his fasting blood glucose level measured at 9.0 mmol/L. How significant are the side effects of Dihua Sugar Tablets?
Answer
Dihua Sugar Tablets are known generically as Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets. This medication not only helps lower blood sugar levels but may also aid in weight loss and reducing hyperinsulinemia. Overdosage can lead to the following side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a metallic taste in the mouth. It can also reduce the absorption of Vitamin B12 in the intestines, leading to a decrease in hemoglobin and causing megaloblastic anemia. It may also cause malabsorption. During treatment, it is important to regularly check fasting blood glucose, urine sugar, and urine ketones, and to monitor blood creatinine and blood lactate levels. Caution should be exercised in patients with a history of lactic acidosis.